My most requested DIY to date! For $25 I was able to update my windows in my kitchen to add privacy without sacrificing style. I have a deep love of using drop cloths from Home Depot for my window coverings but if you're looking for something different any medium-weight fabric will work. Look for a fabric that will make slightly billowy folds, it should not fall flat or be too heavy to fold.
Shopping List:
- Mini Blinds to Fit Window (cordless)
- Midweight fabric, 6 wider and 12 longer than the window
- Fabric Glue or Tacky Glue
- Foam Paint Brushes
Tools Needed:
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Iron
- Paperclips and/or clothespins
Step 1: Install Blind on Window
Follow manufacturer’s directions to install. Pull blind down to the full length of your window.
Step 2: Remove Extra Blind Slats
Decide how much space you want between folds, less slats equals less folds. A good rule of thumb is to divide the height of the window in inches by 7 – that is how many slats you will need. Be extra careful on this step – do not cut the string that connects all the slats!
Step 3: Measure and Iron Hems on Fabric
Measure the window. shade size and cut your roman shade fabric so there are 2 inches excess on each side and enough excess fabric on top and bottom to wrap around the edges. Press fabric edges with an iron to create crisp hems. Press 2in vertical seams to create crisp fold edges (these edges will crap around the slats).
Step 4: Attach Fabric to Header
Remove the blind from the window. Use foam brush to apply tacky/fabric glue to the header of the blind and the back of the fabric. Glue fabric to header, press firmly and hold. You may want to use clothespins or a small clamp to secure the fabric. Let dry.
Step 5: Attach Fabric to Slats
Re-hang the blinds with the fabric attached to the header. Fully extend blind to the bottom of the window. Starting from the top brush slats with glue and firmly press fabric against slats – wrapping 2in hem around the back of the slats, add a dot of glue to the backside of slats to adhere fabric.
Step 6: Attach Fabric to the Bottom of the Roman Shades
Apply glue to the bottom of blinds, wrap fabric completely around the edge, with pressed edge at the backside. Press firmly and let dry. Congrats!! Your new roman shade is now complete, a custom look without the price tag.
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