Dressing up bland, boring windows is easier than you think! With the simple addition of DIY curtain scarves, you can create beautiful, dimensional window treatments in no time. Curtain scarves softly drape over rods to elegantly frame windows with graceful folds of lightweight fabric. Achieving this high-end look is possible even if you’re not an avid sewer. Follow our step-by-step instructions to master the art of styling pretty curtain scarves to elevate any room.
Measure Windows and Determine Curtain Lengths
Before selecting fabrics or calculating yardage, accurately measure your windows. This ensures proper fit and fullness for the finished scarves. Use a standard spool of thread to take width measurements across the top, middle, and bottom of the frames. For standard rectangular windows, simply note the longest measurement.
Next, decide if you prefer scarves to just meet the frame edges or puddle onto the floor for extra drama. Floor-length scarves can be 1-2 times the window height, while sill-length would match your exact measurements. Mark the preferred lengths.
Account for Hanging Rod and Hardware
Consider existing curtain rods and hardware when measuring. Standard rods may need a wider specialty scarf rod installed further above the frame to accommodate draping. Ensure measurements account for hardware fixtures to guarantee complete window coverage.
Select Sheer Fabrics for Scarves
The secret to perfectly draping curtain scarves lies in choosing lightweight, delicate sheers that hang gracefully. Billowy chiffons, airy silks, and soft laces are ideal options. Purchase these fabrics by the yardage at local craft stores. Or recycle old silk saris or slips by cutting DIY swatches in your preferred lengths and widths.
Ready-Made vs. Handcrafted Scarves
For convenience, pick ready-made sheer curtain panels close to your measurements, available online and in stores. With some strategic draping adjustments, these can mimic the look of drapery scarves.
For full customization, handcraft DIY scarves from your fabrics of choice. Simple stitched hems finish raw edges. This also allows you to cut extended widths to generously drape without gaps.
Install Rods to Support Scarf Hanging
Rods wider than windows are necessary for scarf hanging to accommodate the volume of fabric. If existing rods are too narrow, swap them for specialty scarf rods. Or, simply install additional hooks at both corners to widen regular rods.
Alternative Hanging Options
Without rods, affix jute twine tautly along the length of the top window frame using heavy duty hooks. Drape scarves directly over the strong string for a bohemian vibe.
For small accent windows, consider two to three decorative O-rings adhered above the window as individual hanging points for each scarf end. This keeps narrow scarves in place and adds modern interest.
Drape Scarves Evenly Over Rods
Lay out scarves across rods, centering fabrics to ensure even draping on both sides. Adjust side hems aligning evenly along rod edges as you smooth out wrinkles.
Begin hanging by pinning front midpoints in place. Drape the two front tails towards their respective corners, followed by the back. Check regularly that symmetry is maintained as you work from the middle outward.
Troubleshoot Uneven Hanging
If uneven wrinkling occurs, gently adjust side lengths and redistribute excess fabric. Add functional weights to longer side hems to counterbalance heavier areas and prevent twisting. With fine tuning, scarves will cascade beautifully!
Embellish Scarves
Once evenly hung, it’s time for decorative details! For textural interest, add subtle gathered ruffles or knife pleats along side hems or headers. Tiny cup hooks connect mini clip-on lanterns to illuminate sheers.
Elevate windows further by layering multiple complementary sheer scarves atop one another. Varying fabrics, textures, and muted colors build enticing, diaphanous dimension.
Inspiring Floor to Ceiling Treatments
For stunning full impact, consider extending treatments from ceiling to floor. Hang double rod sets with sheers above opaque linens. Or, try cascade ruffles that elegantly puddle onto floor surfaces. The options for breathtaking curb appeal are endless!
- Softer, flowing fabrics easily create dreamy scarf drapes
- Proper measurement ensures perfect on-window proportions
- Wider specialty rods better accommodate scarf fullness
- Start hanging from rod middle; adjust sides symmetrically
- Embellish with textures, lighting, ruffles for added polish
It’s easy to upgrade standard windows with this basic technique. Give your blank frames some extra personality with the tailored yet ethereal beauty of fluidly draped curtain sheers.