If you are looking for cost effective unlined curtains, then gingham curtains are a great choice. Traditional gingham is a simple cotton fabric which is often made into curtains, in particular for kitchens and nurseries but they can also be used in any room in your home where you want to create a simple, informal look.
If even gingham means stretching your budget a little, then there are some ways to get gingham window curtains for less, if you are determined to have them.
One way is look for polyester curtains rather than traditional cotton. They are generally imported and are a little cheaper than cotton curtains. However, I think you might be disappointed with the quality if you go that route.
Alternatively, look for gingham curtains in sales at your local curtain or department store. Sales are happening quite frequently these days so you should not have to wait too long. You may find ready made curtains on sale or the costs of custom-making reduced during these promotions at the store.
As with most things, you can generally find this type of curtain a little cheaper on the web. The only disadvantage to this is that you cannot feel the fabric to determine the quality of what you are buying. Check out buyer reviews on the site but, if there are none, make sure that the online store has a fair returns policy before you purchase.
If you are able to sew then you may consider making your own gingham curtains to save money. Not only are curtains made up wholly of straight lines but those straight lines are even plotted out for you by the checks in the fabric so they are very easy to make, even compared to other similar curtains. The most important thing is to get your measurements right and to make sure your stitching is straight and after than it should be a breeze. If you are not sure how much fabric to buy, get some help from the store before purchasing. Simply take your window measurements along and they should be able to help you.