How To Dress a Bay Window

Bay windows add a unique style to a room.They give detail to the house from the outside.Their size and structure can provide additional light, as well as an interesting visual element.The way the 3 window panes relate to one another and the way they push out of the house's otherwise linear frame make it difficult to decorate them.Dressing a bay window simply and elegantly is a way to avoid hiding the window.There are a number of ways to accomplish this.

Step 1: The place to put the rods is up to you.

A different look for your bay window can be created by placing the window dressing rods in different locations.The first step in getting a great window dressing is to decide where to install the rods.The wooden frame of the window has brackets that you can use to install the rods.Tension rods can be pressed between the sides of the window frame to install the rods.The brackets are attached to the wall and can be used to install the rods above the window.To create the illusion of a bigger window, you can extend the rods a bit wider.

Step 2: Measure the window.

To get curtains to look great on a bay window, it is important to get an accurate measuring of the windows.Measure the length and width of the windows with a tape measure.Measure the width of the window to find out how long the rods should be.The minimum length for the curtains is determined by the length of the window.You can easily access the measurements when you write them down on paper.How you measure the width of the windows depends on where you plan to install the rods.If you want to install the rods on the window frame, you need to know the width of the top frame.If you want to install tension rods underneath the top frame, you need to measure the width of the two frames.If you plan to install the rods on the wall above the window, you should measure the width of the brackets from where you want them to go.If you choose to install brackets on the wall, try to have the rod extend the same amount outside each side of the window.When you take a measurement, make sure the tape measure runs straight across.

Step 3: You can choose the type of rods you want.

You need to know if the curtains will go around the whole of the bay window when you choose your curtain rods and tracks.You cannot cover the windows with your soft furnishings if the curtains are in multiple sections.You can use a bay window curtain pole or curtain tracks.Get a bendable curtain track.

Step 4: There are many curtain rods to choose from.

Depending on the type of rod you choose, your window will have a different look.When choosing curtain rods, think about the look you are going for.A smooth, blended look can be created with a rod similar in color to your walls or window frame.If you have a light colored window frame or walls, choosing a dark colored rod will give you a bold contrast for an upscale look.If you want a more traditional feel, choose a thinner rod around 1 inch in diameter.Rods thinner than 1 inch can look cheap and take away from the nice effect of a dressed window.

Step 5: The rods need to be installed.

Use a drill and screwdriver to mount the rods above the window frame.You can use a laser level to make sure you are mounting the rod straight.You should mark the location where you want to hang your brackets.Attach the brackets with a hole in the wall.There is a plastic wall anchor in the hole.The anchor should be at least 25 lbs.Attach the brackets to the wall anchor.The mounting brackets should be hung on the rod.

Step 6: You can choose a shade.

Shades are useful to block out the sun and heat in the summer and can add a look of elegance to a window.When choosing blinds or shades, think about what you want your window to look like.Plastic blinds are an economical choice.There are plantation shutters that give a look of elegance.A rustic look can be provided by bamboo or cloth blinds.

Step 7: Take your paint colors into account.

There is a color scheme on the wall of the room.You do not want the window to clash with the other colors in the room.

Step 8: How often will you open the blinds?

Heavy use can cause many blinds to become damaged.Pick blinds that are easy to open and maintain if you plan to use them to adjust the light in your window.

Step 9: Put the blinds up.

When you buy window shades or blinds, they come with mounting hardware.Inside the window frame, most blinds are mounted.According to the manufacturer's instructions, use a screwdriver, drill, or hammer to mount the blinds.

Step 10: You can pick a fabric for your curtains.

There are many fabric types that can be used to make curtains.When hanging from a window, it's important to consider how heavy the fabric is.A sample of fabric should be 2 yards long.You can observe how the fabric flows to the floor by twisting it.Light fabrics can become overly flared when crimped.Silk, velvet, and Linen are commonly used for curtains.

Step 11: Interlining is added to the curtain.

A piece of felt can be placed between the curtain fabric's inner and outer layers to provide body and fullness.The temperature of your home will be maintained if you have a lining on your curtains.A piece of felt should be sewn between the front and back of the curtain to create a three layer curtain.Lining can help prolong the life of your curtains.

Step 12: Pick the right color for your curtains.

Solid colors or decorative prints can be used for curtains.Make the window dressing pop by adding an accent to your curtains.You should be aware that the colors of your curtains fade over time.It is possible to blend neutral colors with the decor of a room.Your window may look gaudy if you avoid busy prints.Your wall colors work well with complimentary colors.When choosing fabric colors for curtains, bring a sample of the wall paint color.

Step 13: Determine the length of your curtains.

Measure the height of your windows.Decide if you want the curtains to extend to the floor or just below the window frame.Depending on the look of the window, curtains can be either long or short.If you want window or floor length curtains, try hanging a sheet and folding it different lengths.It's important to buy extra length of fabric to account for seams and hems.

Step 14: The curtains need to be hung.

To hang the rods in front of the window, put the curtains over them.There is a curtain on either side of the hanging rod.To give them a better look, Bunch the curtains along the rod.To drape the curtains partially open, tie a ribbon around the middle of them.