Rolling window shades are an inexpensive quick way to cover windows. When combined with other window treatments, they can contribute to a beautiful design. Nevertheless, with a little work, these normally plain window treatments will stand on their own. Here are some ideas you can use to beautify your roller shades allowing them to be the focal point of your windows.
There are several ways to embellish your rolling window shades. The process for applying fabric to your shade is as follows. You will need to purchase rolling window shades cut to fit your windows. Also, buy adhesive spray, fabric to match your décor, and embellishments like tassels and trim. To assemble your custom roller shade you need to unroll the window shade and cut your fabric ½ inch bigger than the shade on all sides. Next, cover the shade with adhesive spray. Then stick the fabric to the shade, and either cut away the extra fabric or fold it around the sides and bottom of the shade. Finally, you need to add the tassels, trim and other embellishments. You will only want to add embellishments to the bottom few inches of the shade so you do not interfere with the function of the shade. However, in the bottom section, you can go crazy adding beads, rhinestones, buttons, and anything else you can think of. With your shade completed, you only need to roll it back up, install, and use according to manufacturers instructions.
You can also beautify your rolling window shade by hand painting it. You will need to purchase a rolling shade with texture, cut to the size of your window. Using acrylic paints to match the walls and fabric in the room you can make stripes, plaids, dots, or swirls. You can also paint a mural on your window shade using a projector to assist you in blowing up the image or by doing it freehand. A great idea for a window mural is to paint it sky blue and sponge on clouds. Alternatively, you can add white stars and a moon to a midnight blue window shade. Your painted window shade can serve as an integral part of a theme designed bedroom. It is a great place to paint an outdoor scene, sports equipment, or even ballet shoes. Remember, to be careful not to apply paint too thick or it will crack and flake off.
Another technique you can use to beautify your rolling window shades is to decoupage it with tissue paper. In the same way, you would decoupage a wood item you can decorate your window shade. The only difference is, instead of using decoupage glue; you would use adhesive spray and then use a light coat or polyurethane spray to seal your design. The process involves cutting or ripping your tissue paper into smaller manageable pieces, spraying the window shade with adhesive and applying the paper to it, overlapping the edges. Be sure not to use too many layers, as you will not want the shade too become stiff. By using this technique, you can cover your shade with an animal print, leather look, or a feminine floral design.
