A Frugal Guide to Making Your Own Roman Blinds

07/11/2019

Roman blinds are the perfect window covering because they add sophistication and charm to any room. While they appear high-end and complicated, these blinds are actually rather easy to make with a few simple tools. This guide will explain the process of sewing loops to the back of a shade and how to use cords to make the fabric fold out of sight when pulled.


The following materials are needed to make a roman shade: two sheets of fabric to cover the window, a 1×1 board the exact width of the window, three screw-eye bolts, cord that is the same length of the shade plus extra for a pull cord, thin plastic strips the same length of the window, plastic rings or a fabric strip with pre-attached rings, fabric glue, sewing machine, thread, needles, and Velcro tape.


The first step is to cut a 1×1 board to the exact width of the window opening. Attach to the frame with screws. Next, choose a fabric and lining that will complement the decor in the room. The fabric should have a bit of weight to it, similar to a table cloth. Cut both fabrics to the exact size of the window opening with an extra inch on the height and width for seams. Now, pin the two layers together with the printed sides facing in. Sew the perimeter of the fabrics but leave a few inches open so the fabric can be turned right-side out when finished. Be sure to cut off the extra seam allowance. Now the fabrics can be turned right-side out and ironed completely flat. Use slip stitches to close the opening and sew Velcro along the top.

The first step of this next stage is to carefully measure and mark the horizontal marks where the pleats will fall. Glue thin plastic strips across the fabric over these pleat marks. If desired, slip the strips between the two fabrics to hide them from sight. When the glue has dried, create a simple sketch using vertical lines and dots to plan where the loops will be placed. Attach the small plastic loops to the plastic strips that have just been inserted. To save time, purchase cotton tape from a craft store that has loops already attached. Make sure the loops are attached securely.

Next, measure and cut two pieces of cord that are twice the height of the window. Tie these cords to the bottom loop of each line on the back of the blind. Thread the cords through the plastic loops and insert into the screw-eye bolts on the board. Use Velcro to attach the entire shade to the board. Carefully run the pull cord through a bolt and make sure the fabric is flat. Run each cord through each bolt at the top until they all end at one side. Now, knot the cords below this last screw and help the fabric fall correctly in pleats. Pull the cord to test the roman shade.

That concludes the frugal guide to making roman blinds. These window coverings are elegant and simple to create, making them the ultimate way to update and decorate a space on a budget.

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