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How to Glue Fabric Onto Window Shades

Dress up drab-colored vinyl shades by covering them in decorative fabric. While shades are an inexpensive way to keep your home private, they are usually not the most attractive choice. Using or reusing fabrics that feature rich colors, patterns and designs adds instant style and turns your plain window shades into decorative window treatments. Go further with window shade projects by cutting shapes out of fabric and gluing them onto either bare shades or already-covered shades as another design option. Cover roll-up shades only as fabric can get caught and come loose from drawstring shades.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Fabric glue
  • Bowl
  • Paintbrush
  • Spray adhesive (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Roll the entire length of the shade out flat on a table or other flat, clean surface. The side of the shade you see when standing inside the home should face you. Measure the length and width of the shade.

    • 2

      Cut fabric to fit the shade, adding a 2-inch margin on the sides and bottom for fitting the fabric around the shade. Pour fabric glue into a medium-sized bowl. Dip a paintbrush in the bowl and apply the glue in even strokes to the shade. You can also use spray-on adhesive to affix the fabric to the shade.

    • 3

      Place the fabric on the shade starting from the top and working your way down. Press the fabric onto the shade and smooth wrinkles as you go. You may want to have a friend or family member help you fit the fabric on the shade to avoid uneven placement.

    • 4

      Turn the shade over once the glue or adhesive dries to fold the remaining fabric over the sides and bottom. Snip the top and bottom corners of the fabric for easy folding. Apply glue or adhesive to the excess fabric and press it firmly on the sides and bottom of the shade.