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Window treatments dramatically affect the overall finished look of any room. There are hundreds of choices, including curtains, shades, blinds, shutters and valances. How do you decide which ones will work for your decorating project?

 

The most important thing to consider when choosing window treatments is the function they need to perform. Window coverings can provide privacy, block light, heat, cold or noise, as well as protect your furniture from the harsh rays of the sun. Make sure the window treatments you choose will perform the function you need.

 

Window coverings help soften the hard, rectangular lines of windows and enhance the décor of your room. You can use them to create a focal point if your room doesn’t have an attractive architectural feature. They can also camouflage problems with the size and shape of your windows.

 

A room’s mood is determined by the colors, the style of furniture and accessories, and the lighting that is used in the space. The window treatments you choose should also complement the color and style of your décor. For example, if your décor is contemporary, you wouldn’t choose country style café curtains for your room. You also wouldn’t use heavy velvet draperies in a casual breakfast room.

Hang kitchen towels or lace panels from clip-on rings, and hang fabric napkins or lace handkerchiefs diagonally over a rod to form a valance as shown in the photo at right. 

Make A Simple No-Sew Roll-Up Shade From Cardboard Tubes

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Window coverings don’t have to be expensive. There are many creative options for no-sew curtains, using lengths of fabric or flat sheets to drape across the tops of your windows in the form of swags as shown in the photo at left.

Drape a round tablecloth over a rod or drape a square tablecloth diagonally over a rod for a window topper.

Hang a silk or dried floral swag along the top of the window instead of a valance.

It’s easy to make a roll-up shade using heavy-duty cardboard tubes approximately 1-1/4” in diameter (like the ones inside a roll of gift wrapping paper). First, measure the inside width of your window and cut two cardboard tubes 1/2” shorter than this measurement. Next, measure the height of the window and add 8” to this measurement. Cut your fabric this length and 1” wider than the tubes.

 

Press under 1/2” along each side edge of the fabric and hem with 1/2” fusible (iron-on) tape. Hot-glue the top edge of the fabric to one of the tubes. Roll the fabric until the tube is completely covered, then hot-glue in place. Repeat with the other tube on the bottom edge of the fabric.

 

Roll up the shade to desired length and tie a few inches from each end with 1/2” ribbon looped over the top and bottom of the shade. Insert a tension rod through the top tube and install inside your window.

These are just a few ideas for adding a customized look to your décor. Have fun experimenting with these techniques, so you can add your own personal touch to any room.