by Anna Wildman

Created on: March 29, 2009

Ah bed curtains and canopies such elegance such romance and such expense. At least thats what most people think. In actuality you can convert any bed into a canopy bed without purchasing a canopy frame. All you need are a few tools and some materials. There are several types of bed curtains and canopies. You can even creat bed curtains without the canopy part , but it tends to leave a blank square of ceiling you have to stare at.

The first thing you need to know when making bed curtains is the size of your bed. You need to measure the end of the bed and one side (hopefully both sides are the same length). Now that you have the measurment decide what effect you want to create. If you want a completely enclosed bed you should probably use the crown molding technique. If you just want curtains on the side consider either the single or double curtain rod technique.

For the single cutain rod technique measure from the centerof the ceiling above the bed to the floor on one side of the bed and then double the measurment. For the double curtain rod version measure from the ceiling to the floor in a straight line on one side of the bed. These measurments give you the length of fabric you need. Divide the measurments by 3 feet to find the number of yards of fabric you need. Fabric comes in several widths the most common being 45 inches. divide the length of the bed by 45 inches and you will get the number of lengths of fabric you need. For example the average queen sized bed requires 4 45 inch wide fabric and with the average ceiling height of 8 feet all 4 cuts need to be 3 yards or 9 feet long. This length allows for a hem and a pocket for the rod. You will need 2 more 3 yard sections if you are fully enclosing the bed.

Curtain rod technique:

Single Curtain Rod

Firstly you need to determine the length of the curtain rod you need. Measure the length of your bed and buy a curtain rod in this length that meet your style. Curtain rods come in all colors and sizes. You will need a round dowel rod type rod not the flimsy metal cheap ones sold at many stores. You can make your own rod with a length of bamboo or a dowel rod with finials screwed to the ends. Next you need hooks. Most rods come with hooks but they wont work for this project go to your local home improvement store and purchase either large eye hooks or ceiling hooks. Make sure the hook is large enough to easily fit around your rod. You will want 4 hooks per rod. Measure and find the center of the ceiling above your

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>