My Experience With Making Roman Shades

As someone who loves home decor, I have always been fascinated with window treatments. I have tried everything from curtains to blinds, but my latest obsession is with Roman shades. They give a sleek and modern look to any room, and they are surprisingly easy to make. In this article, I will share my personal experience with making Roman shades and give you expert tips to make your own.

The Top 9 Expert Tips On Making Roman Shades

1. Choose the Right Fabric

The fabric you choose will determine the look and functionality of your Roman shades. For a clean and crisp look, choose a medium-weight fabric like cotton or linen. For a more luxurious look, choose a heavy-weight fabric like velvet or brocade.

2. Measure Your Window Correctly

Measure the width and length of your window carefully. Add a few inches to the width and length to allow for hemming and mounting hardware.

3. Choose the Right Mounting Hardware

There are two types of mounting hardware for Roman shades: inside mount and outside mount. Inside mount hardware is installed inside the window frame, while outside mount hardware is installed outside the window frame. Choose the right hardware based on your window frame and the look you want to achieve.

4. Use a Lining

Using a lining will give your Roman shades a more professional look and will protect your fabric from fading. Choose a lining that is similar in weight to your fabric.

5. Use a Cord Lock System

A cord lock system will make it easier to open and close your Roman shades. It will also keep them in place when they are fully raised.

6. Use a Rod Pocket

A rod pocket will make it easier to mount your Roman shades. It will also give them a more finished look.

7. Hem Your Fabric

Hem your fabric before you start making your Roman shades. This will make it easier to work with and will give your shades a more professional look.

8. Make Sure Your Folds Are Even

When you are making your Roman shades, make sure your folds are even. This will give your shades a more polished look.

9. Test Your Shades Before You Install Them

Test your shades before you install them to make sure they are working properly. Adjust them as needed to make sure they open and close smoothly.

Step by Step Guide for Making Roman Shades

Now that you know the expert tips for making Roman shades, here is a step by step guide to help you make your own:

Measure your window and add a few inches to the width and length for hemming and mounting hardware.
Cut your fabric and lining to size.
Hem your fabric and lining.
Sew the lining to the fabric.
Mark the placement of your folds on the back of the fabric.
Sew the rings to the back of the fabric at the placement marks.
Thread the cord through the rings and the cord lock.
Install your mounting hardware.
Attach the shade to the mounting hardware.
Test your shades to make sure they are working properly.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making Roman Shades

Here are some additional tips and ideas for making Roman shades:

Use a decorative trim on the bottom of your shades for added style.
Add a blackout lining to your shades for better light control.
Use a fun patterned fabric for a pop of color in your room.
Choose a fabric that matches your decor for a cohesive look.
Use a sheer fabric for a light and airy feel.
Install your shades higher than your window frame to create the illusion of a taller window.
Add a valance to the top of your shades for a more finished look.
Use a cordless system for a sleek and modern look.
Choose a fabric with a texture for added visual interest.
Use a double layer of fabric for added insulation.

Pros and Cons of Making Roman Shades

Like any DIY project, making Roman shades has its pros and cons. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

Customizable: You can choose the fabric, size, and style that best fits your decor.
Cost-effective: Making your own Roman shades can be more cost-effective than buying them pre-made.
Fun and Creative: Making Roman shades can be a fun and creative project to tackle.

Cons:

Time-consuming: Making Roman shades can be a time-consuming project, especially if you are new to sewing.
Requires Sewing Skills: Making Roman shades requires basic sewing skills, which not everyone may have.
May Not Be as Professional Looking: Unless you are an expert seamstress, your Roman shades may not look as professional as pre-made ones.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Making Roman Shades

Overall, I found making Roman shades to be a fun and rewarding project. It took me a few tries to get the folds even and the cord lock working properly, but I was pleased with the final result. I would suggest starting with a simple fabric and design if you are new to sewing. Once you feel more confident, you can experiment with more intricate designs and fabrics. If you are short on time or don’t have sewing skills, pre-made Roman shades may be a better option for you.

Question & Answer/Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to make Roman shades?

A: The time it takes to make Roman shades depends on your sewing skills and the complexity of the design. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete the project.

Q: What fabric is best for Roman shades?

A: Medium-weight fabrics like cotton or linen are best for a clean and crisp look. Heavy-weight fabrics like velvet or brocade are best for a more luxurious look.

Q: Can I make Roman shades without sewing?

A: It is possible to make Roman shades without sewing, but it requires using fabric glue or iron-on adhesive tape. These methods may not be as durable as sewing and may not give you the same polished look.

Q: How do I clean my Roman shades?

A: The best way to clean Roman shades depends on the fabric. Most fabrics can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth or vacuumed with a brush attachment. Some fabrics can also be dry cleaned. Check the care instructions on your fabric before cleaning.