DIY: Soft Arch Fabric Shades

Follow the package instructions to install an arch window curtain rod in the arch window casement. An arch window curtain rod is flexible and bends around the top of the arch inside the casement. Install the rod brackets on each side of the bottom of the arch and at least one at the top of the arch, according to directions.

Measure the horizontal bottom of the arch window. Add a seam allowance of 1 1/4 inches to get the length of the soft fabric you need for the shade. Measure the perimeter of the arched part of the window, then double this number and add 1 1/4 inches seam allowance. This is the width measurement for the soft fabric. Cut the fabric in a rectangle to these dimensions.

Turn all four edges of the soft fabric toward the wrong side, if there is one, 1/4 inch. Press this hem down with an iron. Stitch it in place. Press another inch of fabric toward the wrong side and press down. Stitch the hem as close to the first fold as possible, leaving a 1/2-inch space at each corner. This makes the pocket for the curtain rod.

Spread the rectangle out on a flat surface with the hem toward the back and the long sides of the panel horizontal. Insert the flexible rod in the hem pocket across the top.

Measure down each shorter side of the panel half the distance of the bottom of the arch window and mark with chalk. Pin together the shorter sides behind the panel at the marks. Now the flexible curtain rod and fabric panel are in the shape of the arched window.

Pull the fabric at the bottom of the panel together in the middle directly over the pin. Tie it in place with string. The two ends form a ponytail. Adjust the gathers on the arched rod so the soft fabric is even.

Twist the two ends of the ponytail together, then turn the twist around itself to form a tight knot, like a hair bun. Tuck the end under the knot and pin it down so it doesn’t come loose. Hand-stitch the knot in place.

Install the fabric shade in the brackets on the arched window.