Stenciled effects help create customized window treatments
Window coverings can be a real challenge.
I lean toward a minimalist approach, as I appreciate the architectural lines and framework of a multitude of windows, large and small, as well as unobstructed views.
You might prefer the open and bright expanse of large windows and glass balcony doors, but some locations call for privacy. There are many solutions, from a vast selection of blinds and shades to fabric draperies fashioned to enhance your room’s style.
When a homeowner approached me for ideas on how to cover up her French doors, I came up with a light and airy design that gave her draperies an appealing and unique look. It’s a do-it-yourself project that can be utilized for any room.
I reversed the usual order of drapery, and layered frothy white sheers over a solid coffee-colored lining; the lining serves as the backdrop for the sheers. Then I cut a daisy pattern into the sheers using a stencil burner, which cuts very neatly and quickly and seals the edges so the fabric won’t fray.
You must use a 100 percent polyester fabric for the heat to melt and seal the edges around the design. Work in a well-ventilated space, as the melting synthetic fabric gives off fumes that could be harmful. Also, the burner tool gets very hot, so take care, and never leave it unattended.
Start by making a template of a daisy, or any other design you like. You can also buy ready-made stencils. It’s easier and more effective to pick a pattern that is not too intricate.
Lay the sheer curtain on a flat surface, and use pins to mark off where you are going to place the cutouts. When creating each cutout, use a tapestry hoop to hold the fabric taut, and work over a piece of glass, as the stencil burner is very hot and will damage wood, plastic or rubber. Place the hoop face down so the fabric is flush with the glass. Remove the pins and tape the stencil to the fabric; then draw the pattern with a pencil and remove the stencil. Carefully cut out the design using the burning tool.
Repeat the process until all of your designs are cut out. Attach the decorative sheers to the background lining along the top, and sew a rod pocket for hanging.
You can use this technique to create a variety of looks.
Think about alternative pattern ideas for a children’s room. Pick a dark sky-blue shade for the backdrop fabric, and cut out moons and stars from the sheer fabric. This will create an opposing visual where the moon and stars show up deep blue against the white sheer.
Once you start working with stencils, it can be hard to stop. Applying decorations to plain store-bought curtains is an easy way to personalize your decor.
You can also try coloring in the stencils with fabric paint instead of making cutouts. Use the dry-brush technique, and build up the color slowly. Practice on a spare piece of the fabric you are using so that you can get the feel of how much paint to use; mistakes are difficult or impossible to remove. Draw whimsical patterns freehand along the borders, hemlines or sides of the curtains. For a subtle effect, pick paint colors that are close to the fabric’s color.
Glossy and pearlized paint will catch the light for a shimmery effect.