In easy reach

Removing a set of cupboard doors and replacing them with curtains is a simple but effective way of softening the look of the kitchen. The doors are carefully removed and stored with their fittings so that they can be put back on, if desired. Two rectangles of fabric are then cut slightly larger than the size of the door and hemmed along each edge, leaving an opening at each end of the top hem through which a length of washing line is strung. Flashes of colour on the fabric can add contrasting accents to the decor. Clean tea towels can be put to use, or other scraps of durable material. The line is then secured on either side of the cupboard so the curtains can be swept aside and pots and pans easily reached.