DIY Arch Blackout Shades: Easy Steps & Save Money!

Craft Your Own Arch Window Shade Blackout Oasis: An Easy DIY Guide!

Let’s banish that unwanted light and create a perfectly dark haven with these simple, cost-effective DIY arch window shade blackout solutions! This guide walks you through each step, ensuring even beginners can achieve professional-looking results and reclaim their restful sleep (or movie-watching experience!).

Planning & Preparation is Key

Before we even touch a piece of fabric, let’s get organized. A little planning prevents a lot of frustration down the line.

Measuring Your Arch Window Accurately

• The Importance of Precision: Arch windows can be tricky. Precise measurements are crucial for a perfect fit and effective light blocking.
• Tools You’ll Need:
  • Measuring tape (a flexible one is best!)
  • Pencil
  • Paper or notebook for recording measurements
  • A helper can be useful for larger windows
• Step-by-Step Measurement Guide:
  1. Width: Measure the widest point of the arch. Record this measurement.
  2. Height: Measure from the bottom of the arch (where it begins to curve) to the highest point of the arch. Record this measurement.
  3. Radius (optional, but helpful): If you want to recreate the arch shape precisely, you can try to determine the radius. This is the distance from the center of the circle that forms the arch to the edge of the arch. Finding the exact center can be tricky, but you can approximate it.
  4. Frame Depth (Important for Mounting): Measure the depth of your window frame. This will determine how much space you have for mounting your blackout shade.

Choosing Your Materials Wisely

Choosing the right materials can drastically impact the final product, both aesthetically and functionally. Here are some options, with considerations for cost and ease of use.

• Blackout Fabric: The heart of the project!
  • Types: Look for fabric specifically labelled "blackout fabric." These usually have multiple layers or a special coating to block light. Common types include:
    • Blackout lining fabric: Typically used to back existing curtains.
    • Blackout curtain fabric: Designed as the main fabric for curtains.
  • Color: While the name implies black, many blackout fabrics come in various colors. Darker colors generally provide better light blocking.
  • Fabric Quantity: Use the measurements you took to calculate how much fabric you need, adding extra for seam allowances (at least 2 inches on each side).
• Backing (Optional but Recommended):
  • Adding a layer of batting or felt between the blackout fabric and the window can further enhance light blocking and insulation.
• Mounting Hardware: Consider how you want to mount your shades.
  • Tension Rods: Great for inside mounts and easy installation. Ensure the tension rod is the correct length for your window.
  • Magnetic Strips: A simple and non-invasive option for metal frames.
  • Hook and Loop Fastener (Velcro): Allows for easy removal and cleaning.
  • Curtain Rods: For a more traditional look.
• Tools & Supplies:
  • Scissors or rotary cutter
  • Cutting mat (if using a rotary cutter)
  • Pins or clips
  • Sewing machine (optional, but makes the project faster and more durable)
  • Needle and thread (if sewing by hand)
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Pencil or fabric marker
  • Measuring tape
  • Cardboard or Poster Board (for creating a template)

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Arch Window Shade

Creating a Template for the Arch

This is the most important step to ensuring a perfect fit.

1. Transfer Measurements: Transfer the width and height measurements to your cardboard or poster board.
2. Draw the Arch: Using your measurements as a guide, carefully draw the arch shape onto the cardboard. You may need to experiment to get the curve right. Tools like a flexible curve or compass can be helpful here.
3. Cut Out the Template: Carefully cut along the drawn line to create your template.
4. Test the Fit: Before cutting your fabric, test the template inside your window frame to ensure it fits correctly. Make any necessary adjustments.

Cutting & Sewing the Fabric

1. Pin or Trace the Template: Place the template on your blackout fabric and pin it in place, or trace around it with a fabric marker, adding seam allowances (at least 2 inches on each side).
2. Cut the Fabric: Carefully cut the fabric along the pinned or traced lines. Repeat this process for the backing fabric (if using).
3. Sew the Edges (Optional): If you’re using a sewing machine, sew around the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying. If sewing by hand, use a whip stitch or overcast stitch.
4. Adding the Backing (Optional): If using backing fabric, place the blackout fabric and backing fabric right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening for turning. Turn the fabric right side out, press, and stitch the opening closed.

Mounting Your Arch Window Shade

This depends heavily on the mounting method you’ve chosen.

• Using Tension Rods:
  1. Insert the tension rod into the top casing of your shade.
  2. Compress the tension rod and fit it inside the window frame, ensuring it’s level and secure.
• Using Magnetic Strips:
  1. Attach magnetic strips to the back of the shade and to the window frame.
• Using Hook and Loop Fastener (Velcro):
  1. Attach one side of the Velcro to the back of the shade and the other side to the window frame.
• Using Curtain Rods:
  1. Create a rod pocket at the top of your shade.
  2. Slide the shade onto the curtain rod and mount the rod above the window.

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Light Leaks: If you notice light leaks around the edges, you can use weather stripping or self-adhesive foam tape to seal the gaps.
• Wrinkles: Iron your fabric before cutting and sewing to prevent wrinkles.
• Complex Arch Shapes: For unusually shaped arches, consider seeking professional help with measuring and cutting.
• Fabric Selection for Different Needs: Consider different types of fabric based on the level of blackout needed. A thinner blackout fabric may be better for a subtle darkening, whereas a thicker option is better for complete darkness.

By following these steps, you’ll transform your arch window into a source of darkness and tranquility, all while saving money and enjoying the satisfaction of a successful DIY project!

So there you have it! Hopefully, you’re feeling ready to tackle your own arch window shade blackout diy project. Go get those windows darkened and enjoy the difference!