Roman Blinds in Twelve Steps

Roman blinds have become a trend in windowthe look you want the blind to have. The length of the
treatments. This is because they are stylish,lining should be the same as the length of the fabric.
sophisticated and clean. Aside from being standaloneAs for the width, measure the batten from one side to
window dressing, they can also be mashed up withthe end, also allowing for some space for the seams.
other treatments like curtains to give your windows aThe width of the fabric and lining should also be the
more layered appearance. They usually have a liningsame.
and are made from fabrics that range from light to· Cut the fabric to the measurements desired
medium weight. Furthermore, you yourself can makeand add 2 inches to allow side seams and 2 inches to
an elegant set of Roman blinds for your house. Itthe length for the hems as well. Remember that the
doesn't take too much effort and materials to make afabric should be at the center, and the seam
lined plain Roman blind that can be fitted into a battenallowances should be equal on both sides.
made of wood.· Cut the lining to the same measurements as
For a DIY Roman blind project, you will need:the fabric.
· Lightweight to medium weight fabric - try to· Lay the fabric on a flat surface with its right
choose fabric that is coordinated to the design themeside facing you and lay the lining on top of the fabric
of the space where you want the blinds to be installedwith the wrong side facing you. Stitch down both sides
inand along the bottom, an inch in from the raw edges.
· Lining· Cut the two bottom corners and add a
· Batten made of brass or woodsecond row of stitching across the bottom, a quarter
· Wall cleatof an inch in from the raw edge. There now would be
· Dowelling strips made of wood or plastic,a space between the two stitching, and this is where
which should measure one and a quarter inch lessyou insert the dowel.
than the width of the blind· Turn the blind with the right side facing you.
· Plastic rings that measure half an inch inIron the blind to flatten the seams out.
diameter· Sew the plastic rings to the dowel, at around
· 4 screw eyelets5 inches apart from each other.
· A wooden batten with dimensions 1" by 1" by· Position the batten onto the window frame
width of the blindand stick the Velcro to the front of the batten.
· Nylon cord which measures three times the· Stitch the loop strip of the Velcro across the
sum of the width of the blind and twice the blind'slength of the blind's top. Then, secure it to the batten
widththrough the stick side of the Velcro.
· Velcro, the stick and sew variety, measuring· Screw the three eyelets into the sides and
the entire blind widthcenter of the batten so that the rings will be aligned.
Procedure:The 4th eyelet is for the side where you want the
· First, secure the wooden batten in the chosencord to be pulled from.
position. Attach the adhesive side of the Velcro to the· Now put the cord to each of the rings on the
side of the batten facing you.sides and put it through all the eyelets on the batten.
· Calculate the fabric required by measuringKnot the cord and trim it. Put the cleat to function as
the batten from top to the length you wish. Be sure tosecurity of the blind when it is raised up.
remember the allowances for the hem, depending on