When we see beautiful curtains for arched windows we assume that it costs a lot and just wait till we get rich, right? Contrary to a general belief, drapes for arched windows do not have to cost as much as you think. For example, the image above shows a pair of swags and a pair of jabot. If you learn how to make them with ready-made patterns, you can do it yourself.
Design Features and Sources:
- A reasonable amount of fabric that doesn’t have to be expensive since it is high up there.
- It is comparatively easy to accomplish if you know how to make swags and jabot.
- The hardware is $150-$200 for the crown. You can buy it here.
- This arched window drape will not block the view or outside natural light
Here is your step-by-step guide:
Because so many people already asked me about the design in the image above, I documented the steps that I hope will help you:
Step1: Measure the Window.
You need all the measurements as shown in the picture above.
Here is another diagram for a different job and a different window:
Step 2: Select Fabric and Trim
You can use a patterned fabric or a solid one.
Things to Avoid when Selecting Fabric:
For this particular design stay away from stripes, heavy fabric that doesn’t fold easily, and busy floral patterns.
Step 3: Make Arched Windows Curtains
The window treatment consists of four joined together parts: Two swags and two jabot.
I found a good source for a pattern for you that workrooms use.
Even though the above pattern is not exact, but I’m sure M’Fay Patterns is a good source for you for swags and jabot.
Step 4: Mounting Draperies on Boards
Because you physically can’t mount the curtains for arched windows all the way up the ladder both swags and jabot are mounted on boards before they go up.
Step 4: Decorative Crown for Arched Curtains
Crowning the window treatment: Have brackets welded to the crown as shown below. I bought a piece of aluminum at Home Depot for $4.00 and had it made by a welder $20.
Step 6: Attach the Crown to the Top Board
Screw the crown to the top board of the window treatment. The window treatments are installed to the wall on regular L brackets.
Step 7: Adjust the Sides of the Drapes
Make sure that the sides are all visually equal. Manipulate folds slightly by hand to give them the desired look.
An Example of Similar Drapes for Arched Windows from My Portfolio:
The above window treatment doesn’t have as much trim but yet it still looks great.
Because the rooms’ layout didn’t allow for a large crown I used a different, smaller crown for the above windows treatments.
That’s it for today.
I hope this post will help you to create your own curtains for arched windows. Finally, please post your photos here when you put them up! I’d be so thrilled to see them! needless to say, if you have questions please post them in the comments and I’ll answer right away.
Rose Burris says
Hi Marina, we’ve been in our house 9 years and I didn’t put any curtains in our living room. But when I saw this design, I was in love. I just want to know where to get the hardwares.
Thank you very much for your time.
Sincerely,
Rose
Josephine says
Hi, my name is Josephine can you please let me know what color the finish is on the hardware you have with those beautiful curtains, thank you.
Marina Klima says
Hi Josephine, I sent you an e-mail.
Patricia says
Hi, I too would like to know how to cut the irregular swags. I had a look at the patterns on the M’Fay Patterns website you mentioned, however I was not able to find a swag pattern for this particular design.
A little advice would be helpful.
Thanks.
alison says
hello
I’m from uk and would be glad of your suggestions for the arched window in our master bedroom
Bill woodard says
Is there a phone number to call you on. I am interested in purchasing the hardware and would like some options on sheer colors
Marina Klima says
Hi Bill,
Sorry for a delayed response. I was in Milan “changing my batteries.” You can reach me at 732-977-7686.
Wendy Tracy says
I love this idea for the second story window we have. And would like to attempt doing this myself. Is the metal crown item still available to purchase through your company? And does it come in a lighter bronze finish? And could I find out more about how the boards are attached? Could I ask you questions (limit to a few) and we do this project? It is just so beauful!!
Thank you.
Wendy Tracy.
Marina Klima Goldberg says
Hi Wendy, I am really sorry for the late reply. I had some personal issues with my mom…trying to save her life. Now once I feel guilty for not replying on time, yep, please call me 732 977 7686 and I will give you all the information you need.
Allison says
Love the drapes and the crown, I was planning to do one myself one of these days, atleast I know where to buy the crown. Thanks
Marina Klima Goldberg says
Hey, Allison,I am super happy to be helpful to you. Come again and bring your friends as I planned many REAL and helpful posts for 2014!
Kathy Bogues says
Hello Marina,
I have a large two story window that I would like to make the Crowning Glory #1 drapes. I will have no problem with the jabots. As the swags are not a standard swag, would you have step by step instructions on how to make the swag, especially how the fabric needs to be cut to get the folds. The trim side of the fabric will need to be 109″ from the middle of the crown to the outside bottom of the arch. The top of the swag needs to be 69″ from the outside of the crown to the side boards.
Your help would be so appreciated.
Regards,
Kathy
sheetal bhagat says
Hello I’m interested in buying the drapery crown set.. Just wanted more details on the dimensions of the crown and the holdbacks. Thanks
Marina Klima Goldberg says
Hello Sheetal,
Thank you for your interest. enclosed is the site with all different sizes and products. Where are you located? please have a look and let me know. Thanks. http://www.ironartbyorion.com/mediterranean.asp?catid=30