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Painted Fabric Window Coverings
I have to thank "The Window Covering Lady", Kit Cassingham, for this great article on fabric window covering ideas. Feel free to
share your frugal window covering ideas with me! And for more great frugal decorating tips, get my free ezine.
Fabric is used for all kinds of window covering applications,
including fabric blinds, curtains, vertical blinds, roman
shades, valances, and window scarves. One great thing about
fabric is that there is so much variety available that you can
find fabric that goes with just about any decorating style you
have or want to create.
Instead of buying a patterned or colorful fabric, buy a
natural, undyed fabric and paint it! This approach truly lets
you create just the right look for any room in the house. If
you have vertical blinds with a fabric insert, paint it with
any number of different kinds of paints, including spray paint,
wall paint and fabric paint. Special effects can be had by
using different techniques and different "styles" of paint like
fleck-stone, string-paint and hammered metal. Just be careful
that you don't pollute your air by selecting a paint that
off-gasses with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Being frugal
should also include being environmentally friendly.
If your fabric isn't on a stiff backing, like a vertical
blind, you may be restricted to using fabric paints because
they flex with the fabric, unlike regular spray or wall paints.
You can paint a wide range of fabric window coverings including
roller shades, roman shades, vertical blinds, horizontal
blinds, and of course curtains.
If you are adding fabric touches for a dramatic touch, like a
window scarf or valance, paint can again be an inexpensive way
to add pizzazz. Even tie-backs for your curtains can be
painted, adding contrast or interest to your window treatments.
Fabric window coverings aren't difficult to clean or maintain.
A simple dusting or vacuuming regularly will keep them clean.
If you have to do more than vacuum them, be very careful so
that your paint doesn't flake off, ruining the pattern and look
you created. Sometimes a dry-cleaner will be the answer.
Sometimes using a large, front-loading commercial washer is
will work the best. Environmentally speaking, the front-loading
washer with baking soda, is your best bet. And talk about
frugal!
Consider natural fabric options like grass cloth, bamboo
fabric, silk, hemp, wool and cotton. Research your options to
find the fabric that interests you, fits your budget, gives you
the most sustainable choice, and matches your decorating
style.Is that choice also readily paint-able? If so, add your
painting touch, and voila, you have a unique masterpiece.
Whether you buy your fabric window coverings or make them,
painting the fabric will add a unique look that will tickle
your fancy. Instead of spending a bit more money on a more
expensive fabric or color, take the cheap route and then add
your painted design.
By "The Window Covering Lady", Kit Cassingham
*****
For even more ideas, read my blog and ezine. I add ideas there often.
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