Furniture Buying Help

Roman blinds are the perfect window covering because they add sophistication and charm to any room. While they appear high-end and complicated, these blinds are actually rather easy to make with a few simple tools. This guide will explain the process of sewing loops to the back of a shade and how to use cords to make the fabric fold out of sight when pulled.

The following materials are needed to make a roman shade: two sheets of fabric to cover the window, a 1×1 board the exact width of the window, three screw-eye bolts, cord that is the same length of the shade plus extra for a pull cord, thin plastic strips the same length of the window, plastic rings or a fabric strip with pre-attached rings, fabric glue, sewing machine, thread, needles, and Velcro tape.

The first step is to cut a 1×1 board to the exact width of the window opening. Attach to the frame with screws. Next, choose a fabric and lining that will complement the decor in the room. The fabric should have a bit of weight to it, similar to a table cloth. Cut both fabrics to the exact size of the window opening with an extra inch on the height and width for seams. Now, pin the two layers together with the printed sides facing in. Sew the perimeter of the fabrics but leave a few inches open so the fabric can be turned right-side out when finished. Be sure to cut off the extra seam allowance. Now the fabrics can be turned right-side out and ironed completely flat. Use slip stitches to close the opening and sew Velcro along the top.

The first step of this next stage is to carefully measure and mark the horizontal marks where the pleats will fall. Glue thin plastic strips across the fabric over these pleat marks. If desired, slip the strips between the two fabrics to hide them from sight. When the glue has dried, create a simple sketch using vertical lines and dots to plan where the loops will be placed. Attach the small plastic loops to the plastic strips that have just been inserted. To save time, purchase cotton tape from a craft store that has loops already attached. Make sure the loops are attached securely.

Next, measure and cut two pieces of cord that are twice the height of the window. Tie these cords to the bottom loop of each line on the back of the blind. Thread the cords through the plastic loops and insert into the screw-eye bolts on the board. Use Velcro to attach the entire shade to the board. Carefully run the pull cord through a bolt and make sure the fabric is flat. Run each cord through each bolt at the top until they all end at one side. Now, knot the cords below this last screw and help the fabric fall correctly in pleats. Pull the cord to test the roman shade.

That concludes the frugal guide to making roman blinds. These window coverings are elegant and simple to create, making them the ultimate way to update and decorate a space on a budget.

Author Bio

Kieron Casey is a BA (Hons) Journalism graduate who blogs regularly on the topics of DIY, decorating and money saving tips.

Comfort is the key to success when you are planning the décor of your bedroom. The same applies when you are choosing the bed. Buying a bed could be a difficult task, or it could be an easy task – depending on how you do it and where you go shopping. The easiest option would be to check out an online store, like Dreams.co.uk.

While you are sure to consider the common factors, here are a few uncommon ones that may need your consideration too.

You need to buy the biggest bed that fits your room and suits your budget. You need to measure the space available to set up your bed before you go shopping for it. The fact is you need to measure the access points of your home too. If the bed is too big for these, you may never be able to take your bed inside your home!

Next is the cost. You may be able to get cheap double beds from online stores. However, it would be an even better bargain if you could get a little something free, or may be minimal costs, e.g., the delivery of the bed.

Another important thing is to buy the bed frame and the mattress together. Different types of mattresses are good for different styles of beds, and finding the right combination is essential. Moreover, if you use an old frame with a new mattress, chances are it would wear down faster, and make it a lot less comfortable.

Selection of the right features is important. If you want additional storage space, side drawers on the bed may be a good choice. Again, if you want a headboard to complete the look, you need to buy this as well.

Remember, the bed is the most important piece in the room. It is better to buy the bed first and the other pieces, like bedside table, dresser, and so on later to ensure the pieces co-ordinate well. If you have a particular décor theme in mind, make sure you choose the bed that matches this instead of just buying one and trying to match it with your idea.

The Feng Shui decorating style is mostly based on organizing the available objects around the room, and on using the available space at its maximum efficiency. Buying some new elements is not mandatory, and this is what makes the Feng Shui kitchen modification simple and effective. Although the result of such decorating idea might look modern, it is in fact a classical decorating style used for millenniums. Try to avoid the metallic and synthetic hard materials, with firm geometric forms, with rounded edges such as natural wood or steel.

The positive energy given by the Feng Shui design and decorations in the kitchen is important especially in the morning, before the beginning of a new day. There are also some experts in kitchen design who are also experts at Feng Shui

Classic decorating styles

The classical, traditional and rustic decorating styles were always appreciated, remaining popular even during our modern days when the minimalist style is mostly used. Whether we are talking about nostalgia, melancholy and memories, the classical decorating style remains an option anytime.

This decorating style is great for the block flat, but also for a villa or a house. The dimensions of the space are not important, as the standards of comfort and functionality can be easily met. An advantage of choosing the classical style is the low cost of the furniture. Unless you are a fan of the custom made furniture, you can easily find all the furniture elements needed in any of the specialized stores. However, those elements must be functional and usable, unless you want them only as a décor.

The décor must give an impression of comfort. For the walls, you can choose the ceramic planks, in different dimensions and colors. You can also add paintings in natural colors. The alternatives to ceramic would be natural stone, mosaics and wood.

The floors must be covered with tiles, stones or flooring. Make sure to respect the classical style by choosing the right shapes, colors and textures. The chromatic elements could be inspired by nature. The pale colors without shining nuances are comforting, and they are also the ideal choice. Choose white, beige, brown and pale yellow if you want to create a perfect comforting atmosphere.