How to Make Embellished Romantic Rose Curtains
Whenever we consider dressing a window we need to understand how we react to light. If the same type of lighting is used in every room of the house it can create a sense of monotony. The senses of a human being are stimulated by variation and contrast. Light affects the way in which we see and perceive colours, shapes and textures. If lighting is not used correctly it can cause a space to appear dull and washed out.
The opposite applies if we are able to use lighting to our advantage, we could create a sense of warmth and intimacy as well as bring a certain energy and mood to a particular area, particularly in the bedroom or living room.
Light is diffused through sheer/light fabrics and we can therefore use this principle to create a wonderful ambiance within a room.
Silk organza or muslin will be ideal fabrics to use but you could also create amazing unconventional window dressings with sari fabric, netting or lace. Browse around at flea markets, thrift stores or garage sales and you’ll be amazed at what you can find that can inspire you to create striking designs for your windows.
Next, I will explain to you step-by-step how to create your own embellished romantic rose (organza) curtain, you will need the following:
• 2 x organza curtains (preferably with tab tops, these are generally readily available at curtain stores, be sure to measure the width and length of your window to ensure that the curtains will fit, alternatively, you can actually purchase organza fabric and fit them to the window yourself.
• 1 x awl (this is a pointed instrument for piercing holes through fabric, leather or wood etc. any art and craft store should stock them).
• 12 x artificial roses (can be bought from most Asian outlets, preferably the same or similar colour as the organza curtain, using clashing colours can make the curtain appear disjointed and chaotic. NB Be sure that the rose bud can come apart from the plastic backing of the flower, once the rose and the stem is pushed through the curtain the backing has to be placed back onto the stem on the other side of the curtain in order for the rose to be secured into place.
• 1 x Curtain wire or wooden dowel (can be bought from curtain store or home improvement store).
• 2 x Hooks and 2 x screw eyes (can be bought from curtain store).
• 1 x pliers or hand saw (can be bought from any home improvement store).
For this exercise we will assume that you have purchased the readymade tab top organza curtains.
I would suggest that you do a trial run of where you will be placing the roses before moving on to the next step. Spread each curtain out on a flat surface and arrange the roses (without securing them) onto the curtain until you are happy with the pattern or sequence which you have chosen. Also consider the space where you are hanging the curtain, if too many roses are used it may make the area and curtain look cluttered and won’t allow the light to shine through the fabric.
Once you are happy with your arrangement, make a mark where you are going to make a hole for each rose.