Evoke a Tropical Fantasy the Inexpensive, Easy Way

Sometimes the quickest seasonal decor comes from the most unexpected places. Mosquito netting is a good example. This accessory has the power to transform any bedroom instantly into a tropical summer retreat, and it's more budget friendly than a plane ticket to your favorite island getaway.

A lovely serene nursery takes on a royal Indian vibe with a mosquito-netting-inspired canopy.


A daybed is transformed into an inviting corner for a summer afternoon nap. Who can resist pausing to reenergize here? I can imagine finding every member of the family snoozing here at some point in the day.


Children's rooms always look cute with the addition of a decorated hooped mosquito net, and in this case a little fantasy is added by placing it in a corner over a small activity table.

Tip: You can add your own custom details to a mosquito net with ribbon, felt shapes and a glue gun.


While the ready-made hoop version is the simplest to install, here's an example in a Greek isles home in which mosquito netting is attached to a bar hung over the bed.

In a space where rustic construction and furnishings set the tone, fine netting looks especially light and wonderfully ethereal.


While I have seen very large hoops on the market that are perfect for hanging over a double bed, if you have a canopy, buy some netting by the yard and go to town!

Tip: Reasonably priced mosquito netting can be made from cotton, polyester or nylon, and while a mesh size of 1.2 millimeters stops mosquitos, you'll need a smaller mesh of .6 millimeters to stop very small insects. So if you want netting that is beyond decorative, make sure to find the right mesh for your area.


An elegant look is achieved here with swaths of netting hanging straight down curtain-style.

Tip: Netting can certainly be hung on a rod with curtain rings for easy closure around the bed — a practical as well as beautiful solution, though you will want to use heavy-grade netting that won't tear when the curtains are drawn.


Like the mosquito netting idea but want to add a little contemporary twist? Consider dip-dying the ends for some added drama.

Dip-dying is as simple as whipping up a batch of dye in a bucket and dipping in the fabric ends, though do a test first to determine how long your fabric will need to stay in the dye, and make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for setting the dye.


When summer comes to a close, you don't necessarily have to say goodbye to your mosquito netting. Add some decorative touches around the perimeter of the hoop or even some little twinkling lights, and you'll make the transition from tropical getaway to winter palace.


Bryne Net - $19.99 » Decorative mosquito nets are quite inexpensive, and you can find them online as well as at places like Ikea.


Solig Net - $19.99 » I love the look of the large hoop; it's a refreshing take on the original smaller size above. And interestingly enough, it's the same price.


Karlsö Netting Curtain for Umbrella - $19.99 » If you're looking for some mosquito netting yardage, you might consider purchasing this curtain, which fits around an umbrella. As far as price per yard, it's probably not a bad deal, and you can use it as you would yardage off a bolt. Or just enjoy your netted umbrella as an instant outdoor room.


Lavender Petal Canopy - $99.00 » I love the fantasy garden look of this sweet little canopy, which DIYers can certainly execute with felt, vinyl or reinforced fabric.

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