• A custom shower curtain can add style to your bathroom.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  When you are designing a bathroom, finding a shower curtain that fits in perfectly with your decor scheme is difficult. By modifying a standard shower curtain, you can create a custom version that will be the finishing touch to your bathroom design. As you plan, choose materials that will stand up to the heat, water, and steam, and find a design that will not interfere with the function of the curtain.
  
  

Custom Stencil

• By using acrylic paint, you can create a custom design on your shower curtain to match the style of your bathroom. Start by choosing the stencil pattern you want; blow it up on your computer and print it on sturdy card stock paper. Lay the shower curtain on a large, flat space so that there are no wrinkles. Starting in one corner and working out, use the stencil and acrylic paint to make a custom design. You can work with a print, a border or use a single, large image in the center, like a monogram or the logo of your favorite sports team. In a child's bathroom, you might paint his name or a set of cartoon fish.
  
  

Add Trim

• When you are working with fabric shower curtains, you can add trim for an uncomplicated customization. You might cut small holes in the bottom of the curtain and weave ribbons through, for example, or use a sewing machine to add several rows of trim. Add decorative cord tie-backs, sew on tassels to each shower curtain loop, or use fabric to create a shape and sew it on to the center of the curtain. Look for accents that match the decor of the rest of the bathroom; you might echo the trim on your hand towels, for example, or make fabric shapes that match the stencil pattern on your walls.
  
  

Updated Shower Rod

• Instead of using the standard rod-and-loop system to hold your shower curtain, make your own for a dramatic look. In a bathroom with a high ceiling, install a bar on the ceiling; a long towel-rack style bar will serve the purpose well. Find decorative shower curtain hooks or loops, and buy two sets. Attach the first set to the shower curtain and the second set to the ceiling rod. Between each corresponding loop or hook, run a decorative chain. By having the shower curtain suspended by the chains from the ceiling, you will draw the eye upward and add an unexpected design touch to your bathroom.