An Introduction to Roman
Shades – Windows Decoration Treatment
by:
Jimmy Sturo
Roman shades are a simple and practical window
treatment to accent a room or to provide privacy from bright sun or noisy
neighbors. A Roman shade is a piece of fabric that is mounted at the top of
a window. The fabric is pleated such that when the Roman shade’s string is
pulled, the fabric folds up in regular intervals. Not only does it look
better than a boring plastic shade, it uses less fabric than other window
treatments making it a cheaper alternative to ornate window treatments.
Classic Roman shades have overlapping folds when the shade is lowered, but
more different treatments do exist. Flat Roman shades have no folds when the
shade is lowered. These shades, when made with sheer or light fabric, can
soften bright southern lighting into a subtle, soothing light. A more
elaborate sunburst Roman shade has extra fabric at the bottom, which is
folded into a half-sunburst. These cheerful shades are perfect for breakfast
nooks, in the kitchen, or in a young girl’s room.
Roman shades can be made at home or purchased. Making your own Roman shade
will be an exercise in mathematical patience. The fabric must be fitted to
the window, and the hooks to draw the Roman shade up must be placed at
regular intervals. Patterned fabrics are more challenging because the
patterns should not clash when the Roman shade is raised. Roman shades for
sale only need to be installed and come in varieties an amateur may find to
difficult to make. For example, some stores like JC Penney, sell cordless
Roman shades perfect for houses with small children. Roman shades for sale
come in hundreds of fabrics or even made of wood. The least expensive Roman
shades start at around $30. Interior designers can also make Roman shades
just for you, but these will be more expensive than store-bought or homemade
Roman shades.
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