Decorating

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Decorative Drapery Hardware Tips

Published July 7, 2011 | By Erin Preble

Drapery hardware adds a design element to any room, and it’s an easy project you can do yourself. Not just for windows, decorative hardware can be used to secure curtains over doors and walls for creative barriers or wall coverings. Drapes are usually heavy, so proper anchoring of the hardware is necessary; don’t skimp in this area or you’ll find yourself with drooping drapes and large screw holes that will need filling.

Measuring tape
Level
Cordless drill
Drill bits
Wall anchors
Hammer
Screwdriver

Measure the height of the window or window frame from the ground. Measure the outside and interior width of the window. Refer to rod widths when purchasing rods and hardware. Notice any decorative elements on the ends of the rods, and consider where the ends of the rods and decorative ends should end with regard to the window width. It may look strange to have decorative ends sticking out too far beyond the window frame. Adjustable rods may be your best bet if you aren’t sure of the aesthetics of your chosen rods.

Take the mounting screws to a hardware store and purchase anchors that fit the screws. The screws should fit perfectly inside the plastic or metal anchors. Get extra, as they can be somewhat challenging to install your first time out.

Measure the window width and height, then compare the measurements to the curtain rods and drape length. Mark one side of each of the window or door at the appropriate distance from the floor.

Hold a level up to the window and mark the spot where each bracket will be mounted at the height you marked earlier. Measure the distance from each side of the window frame or opening to the bracket location to ensure a centered mount. Hold the brackets up to the wall and mark the screw holes for reference.

Fit an electric drill with a bit one size larger than the wall anchor and drill into the screw hole markings. Place an anchor in each hole, then gently tap them in with a hammer until they are almost flush with the wall.

Line the hardware back up with the anchored screw holes, then use an electric or hand-held screwdriver to secure the hardware. Install the rods and drapes, then tighten any rod screws if applicable.

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Imaginative No-Sew Window Treatments

Published July 5, 2011 | By Laura Vryhof

Window treatments are great when you want to add a fresh decorative touch to your home. Unfortunately, for those of us on a budget, it is an expensive prospect to purchase a whole room’s worth of new window treatments.

Keep in mind though, that there are a lot of do it yourself options available and never fear, you might not even have to pick up a needle or thread. Using your imagination along with some easy to find connectors, you can turn any piece of fabric into a chic, easy no-sew window treatment for a fraction of the cost of ready made or custom pieces.

First, you will need to choose a fabric that goes with your décor. Look for one that already has finished edging. Printed sheets or vintage table linens work well here. If you are not afraid of a little sewing, choose any fabric and finish the edges on your sewing machine. Iron on seaming tape is another great option if you are really allergic to the sewing machine. Just fold over the edges with the tape inserted between the folds and iron to create a nice crisp finish.

Next, look for grommets, clips, hooks, or cords to hang your treatment with, and you’ll have a beautifully simple and inexpensive window treatment that reflects your personal style and creativity. Grommets will slip over wall hooks or metal curtain rods. They come in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. They are inexpensive to purchase and it only requires a hammer and a grommet tool to apply them. The grommet adds protection so the holes will not rip out as well as adding a nice finished look to your treatments. Get creative with these versatile and easy to use connectors.

Clip rings are another quick and inexpensive option. These rings just clip onto any fabric and slide over your curtain rods. In my bathroom, we have a very small window and I used these types of clips to create curtains out of a couple of small towels. They match my décor and cost less than $10 for the whole treatment.

If you are not afraid of extensive sewing, and need drape topped window treatments, you can purchase “drape tape”. It goes by several names but essentially consists of a heavy fabric tape with cords sewn into it. You sew it to the top of your material and then pull the cords creating perfectly shaped drapery pleats.

Did you know that you can buy blackout lining material at most fabric stores? Add this coated fabric to the back of less expensive materials to make them more opaque and extend the life of your window treatments.

Let your imagination be your guide, and it becomes easy to create imaginative no-sew window treatments that reflect your personality and style.

Written by Laura Vryhof