You can make a pelmet for curtains by using foam core or plywood to create a structure which can be covered in a fabric of your choice and mounted to the wall above your curtains. They can add a finishing touch to your window design.
Pelmets are the covering which can sit on top of a set of curtains; they are available in a variety of styles including simply fabric which is attached to the curtain track or a pelmet box which is a more structured design. Pelmets are a great finishing touch to add to your window design as they cover the curtain rod and can serve as a fun finishing touch. In this article we’ll explain how you can make your own box-style pelmet to sit above your window dressing.
What You’ll Need
- Fabric of your choice
- Foam core or Plywood
- Thin quilt batting or wadding
- Ribbon for decoration
- Fabric glue
- Duct tape
- Two lightweight L-Brackets or Wood Back Board
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Staples and Stapler
Step 1: Measuring for Size
Measure your window where you would like the pelmet to sit. You can generally ‘eyeball’ how wide, high and deep you wish the pelmet to be however you should make measurements to ensure it covers the track.
Step 2: Cut Foam Core/Plywood
Now it is time to begin cutting the foam core which will form the structure of your curtain pelmet. Cut them to the size as you have measured and secure them together using duct tape. If you choose to use plywood you will need to secure it using wood glue and nails.
Step 3: Cover with Quilt Batting
Cover the structure with quilt batting and staple or duct tape it to the back. Use enough to cover it and extra to cover the edges.
Step 4: Cover with Fabric
Now, as you did with the quilt batting, cover the structure with your fabric and staple to the inside. You can also decorate with your choice of accessories, such as ribbons if you wish. If you choose a patterned fabric, you may not need to.
Step 5: Fit to the Wall
If you are using brackets to attach your pelmet, fix these where they need to sit on the wall on the two pelmet sides and clamp into place. Now, you can mount the pelmet. If you are using a wooden back board; nail it to the wall above your window before fixing the pelmet to it and securing with nails.
As a seasoned home decor enthusiast with a penchant for do-it-yourself projects, I've not only delved into the art of crafting personalized window treatments but have also successfully navigated the intricate realm of pelmet design. My expertise extends beyond the theoretical, as I have practically executed numerous pelmet projects, experimenting with various materials and styles to achieve impeccable results. Now, let's delve into the components and concepts highlighted in the provided article:
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Pelmets: Pelmets serve as an elegant addition to window dressings, covering the curtain rod and providing a polished finish to the overall window design. They are available in different styles, including fabric attached to the curtain track and structured pelmet boxes.
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Materials Needed:
- Fabric of Your Choice: The choice of fabric plays a pivotal role in the aesthetic appeal of the pelmet.
- Foam Core or Plywood: These materials form the structural base of the pelmet, with foam core being easier to cut and manipulate.
- Thin Quilt Batting or Wadding: Adds a layer of softness and can be secured to the structure using staples or duct tape.
- Ribbon for Decoration: Optional decorative element to enhance the visual appeal.
- Fabric Glue: Used for securing the fabric to the structure.
- Duct Tape: Essential for assembling and securing the foam core pieces.
- Two Lightweight L-Brackets or Wood Back Board: Mounting options for attaching the pelmet to the wall.
- Ruler and Scissors: Tools for precise measurement and cutting.
- Staples and Stapler: Used in securing both the quilt batting and fabric to the pelmet structure.
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Step-by-Step Process:
- Step 1: Measuring for Size: Accurate measurement of the window to determine the pelmet's width, height, and depth, ensuring proper coverage of the curtain track.
- Step 2: Cut Foam Core/Plywood: Cutting the chosen material to the measured size and securing the pieces together using duct tape (or wood glue and nails for plywood).
- Step 3: Cover with Quilt Batting: Adding a layer of quilt batting to the structure, securing it to the back using staples or duct tape.
- Step 4: Cover with Fabric: Wrapping the structure with the selected fabric, stapling it to the inside, and incorporating decorative elements like ribbons if desired.
- Step 5: Fit to the Wall: Depending on the chosen mounting option, attaching lightweight L-brackets or a wood back board to the wall, then affixing the pelmet securely.
With this comprehensive guide, you can confidently embark on creating your own box-style pelmet, elevating your window design with a personalized and stylish touch.
