How to Make a Roman Shade

Notes: Add a cord cleat to each window blind for safety. Operating cords must have a default length of 40 percent of the blind height according to Section 4.3.2 of ANSI/WCMA-2018 (previously unlimited). And a warning label must depict more graphically the strangulation hazard associated with cords (5.1).
How to Make a Roman Shade Video demonstrates step-by-step how to create a traditional roman shade for your home. Roman shades are a functional and stylish way to soften the look of your windows, while also providing privacy. Learn how to measure the window, pattern the fabric, calculate spacing for the dowels, build a headrail, and install the shades.
See a NEW Roman Shade DIY video which includes a roller clutch system: • How to Make a Roman Sh...
For your roman shade, choose from hundreds of great home décor fabrics at www.sailrite.com/Fabrics/Home...
Fabric Calculator Link: fabric-calculator.com/roman.aspx
How to Make a Roman Shade Chapters
Intro -- 0:00
Measuring Window -- 0:26
Adding Drapery Lining -- 5:56
Securing Dowels -- 9:11
Sewing Bottom Hem -- 14:08
Finishing Top Edge -- 17:17
Attaching Rings -- 19:54
Building a Headrail -- 23:53
Installing Curtain Hardware -- 26:59
Materials List -- 34:57
MATERIALS LIST:
• Decorative Fabric from Sailrite - www.sailrite.com/Fabrics/Home...
• Drapery Lining Fabric from Sailrite - www.sailrite.com/Fabrics/Home-...
• Thread from Sailrite - www.sailrite.com/Notions/Threa...
• Wood Dowels or Plastic Ribs - www.sailrite.com/Roman-Shade-P...
• Metal Dowel Rod - www.sailrite.com/Bottom-Rod-fo...
• Nylon White Hook - www.sailrite.com/Velcro-Nylon-...
• Nylon White Loop - www.sailrite.com/Velcro-Nylon-...
• Sew on Rings - www.sailrite.com/Sew-on-Rings-...
Screw Eyes - www.sailrite.com/Standard-Scre...
• Cord Lock - www.sailrite.com/Cord-Lock-for...
• Leechline 5/64” - www.sailrite.com/Leechline-Dac...
• Plastic Lift Cord Condenser - www.sailrite.com/Plastic-Lift-...
• Mounting Screws
• Wood Headboard
This instructional video is intended for personal use. If making shades to sell or gift, they must comply with the latest safety regulations.
Warning:
Cords can be hazardous, even fatal, to young children. Keep cords out of reach of children. Keep cribs, playpens, and other furniture away from cords. Do not tie cords together or allow cords to twist or loop together.
Note:
If glue is used to secure dowels to fabric be sure to test the glue on the fabric to check for bleed-through.

[@Happybidr]

I just LOVE all the Sailrite videos. They are so well done. And they answer all the little questions that no one else seems to reveal. I especially love the clarity of the announcer’s voice.

[@SailriteDIY]

Wow, that is a very nice complement! Thanks a million!!!

[@happysculler]

This takes the mystery completely out of the process! Beautifully detailed instruction. I love it and will be making shades that I've been avoiding doing for 20 years!! Thank you!!

[@SailriteDIY]

Glad we could help!

[@odetteboudreau5970]

I have just hung my first Roman shade in my bedroom. Success!! Couldn't have done it without your excellent tutorial. Thank you so, so much! ❤️

[@samanthatansley]

This is fascinating. As a beginner sewist I feel like you’ve explained it well enough that I could complete this project!

[@netiell494]

Ive never made curtains before but this video sure does give me the information and confidence that I can do this. Thank you.

[@nobodyatm]

Excellent tutorial: thorough and easy to follow and with professional looking results. Thank you sailrite!

[@KarenGravatt]

I'm working my way from faux shades to the real thing and your video is the best I have seen! Thank you from a novice newbie!

[@ShutterAustralia]

The Roman Shade is is a classic option when you're looking for a stylish shutter style! Even if you're buying your own shutters and getting it installed, there's some great insight. Window measurement, fabric patterning and more are great to know when negotiating a great price!

[@carlynholmes]

This is a great tutorial, you have paid attention to the oh-so-important details...Thank you!

[@JH-xy6lh]

This is a superb video! It offers extremely clear and easy-to-follow instruction, is well-paced, and has great videography. Thanks so much for a job very well done!

[@mindywegener7058]

Thank you for a comprehensive and easy to follow tutorial. Well done!

[@Genextra70]

Thank you for taking the time to put this tutorial up on KZbin. I don't understand people who gripe about it being too long etc. it is thorough and easy to understand. I have watched it a couple of times to make sure I have a good understanding of each step Sailrite has some amazing tutorials and they offer professional instruction free of charge. The sailrite tutorials have been an invaluable resource to me in helping to expand my skill set.

[@SailriteDIY]

Kim, Thanks for your positive comments! We strive to provide accurate and helpful video tutorials for the DIY market. Your kind words and loyal support will help us continue to make new videos for DIY, thanks.

[@kristinclark7245]

This has got to be the best tutorial I have seen for making Roman shades - making it look easier than even all those easy to do hack tutorials!!!

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks! If you have questions let us know.

[@dulceangel191]

Impecable tutorial. And very well done job. Congrats!

[@pennyleesk]

These are great videos on making Roman Shades. Thank you so much for producing them. I know I"ll be coming back to this site to view some of your other videos, too. I'm anxiously awaiting being able to order the small cord locks so I can get my shades hung up.

[@susestevens9625]

Wow! What a great video - clear and thorough and pleasant to listen to. Many thanks. I can't wait to get started on these shades.

[@Snail_Nailz]

THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! This was by far the BEST tutorial for diy roman shades I've seen. I found a lot of bloggers that just use previous window shades but I wanted to do it right if I was going to buy fabric/lining and sew. I'd LOVE to see a tutorial for the relaxed roman shades that have the 2 pulls and scallop bottom edges when retracted.

[@jenniferb307]

Best roman shade how-to video I have seen. Thank you so much for putting in the time to put so much detail. It really helps someone do this at home for the first time.

[@SailriteDIY]

+Jennifer Comments Wonderful, glad you liked it. Check out this brand new Hobbled Roman Shade Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5mxf6CYntahf8U

[@Janie4859]

I always love y'alls videos! I'm addicted to diy!! Will definitely be doing this soon!

[@lindaehemann9677]

Girllll, you deserve a raise! Awesome work, makes senses. Just don’t have the patience for all those measurements. You deserve a really good salary.

[@alankwong61]

Thanks for the amazing, in-depth video!

[@patrishaschneider1313]

This is one of the most informative instructions that I have used to make Roman shades. It is also visually informative. The end product is perfect and makes me feel like a pro.

[@SailriteDIY]

+Patrisha Schneider I am glad you liked it. Thanks!

[@nehalmc]

Very clear and simple instructions. This is one of the best instruction videos ever. Now the only thing that remains is actually making it myself!

[@joannebona307]

By far, THE best video tutorial for how to make a PROFESSIONAL quality ( as opposed to diy home made looking) Roman Shade. I really appreciate the time it took to do this video and will certainly look to Sailrite to get the supplies I will need to make my shades. I especially like the formula for spacing the dowels to get the nice cascading waterfall effect of the shade, as opposed to all the folds stacking up on one another. I am so pleased with how each step was explained. Having the video to refer to as I do each step is great. Cant wait to start my project!

[@SailriteDIY]

+Joanne Bona Great! Send us photos of your shades when they are done. Let us know if you have questions.

[@gailsavadel7718]

I just finished making 3 of these Roman Shades for our new kitchen, along with 3-pc valances (not from your website). I thought the instructions were spot on and loved the way the narrator spoke slowly for my even slower brain! haha! One change I did make after the first shade was instead of putting the Tear Mender on in spots along the dowels, I used a piece of wall molding that had grooves in it in which I placed the wood dowel to keep it in place and ran the Tear Mender in a line along the dowel. This worked out much better because when the sun comes thru the window on the first shade, I can see little dots thru it. Wish I could post a picture. Thank you SailRite!

[@sueloberger2672]

I used this video to make some beautiful Roman shades. It helped me immensely. I can't count how many times I referred to it during the process. This is the best instructional video I have seen. Thanks for the help.

[@MsJax1967]

Thanks so much. I will be following this one very closely. This was the best video I've seen. Will be buying the metal hooks and the lock system Great video.

[@ClaudiaGarcia-hv7fp]

great tutorial thank you for taking the time in doing it step by step so we could understand

[@Yayablev]

Just found this video and I have to say, it is the most thorough, detailed video I have ever watched. I now feel confident that I can make my own shade...with Sailrite hardware! Thank you so much.

[@SailriteDIY]

We are so glad you liked it. Let us know if you have more questions.

[@julieaz1560]

Mr. Grant, thank you for generously making this video for us. It was obvious to me that you carefully thought out what information we would need. I will check out Sailrite for my supplies. Thanks again.

[@SailriteDIY]

J AZ You are welcome! Thanks for supporting Sailrite!

[@brendame]

Aren't these Sailrite tutorials wonderful? ...yes they are!!!

[@cvejanos]

Great video! I followed the instructions on my iPad to make it easier to rewind, fast forward, and screen capture while I worked on the blinds. Just hung them this morning. Wish I could post a photo! Very pleased with the end result.

[@SailriteDIY]

Post your photos on our Facebook page: facebook.com/sailrite

[@julsvas77]

This video is excellent, I couldn't have made Roman Shades without this step-by-step instruction. I have watched it so many times now. Just finished my first project of Roman shades for my bay window in the dining room. I couldn't find any in-store curtains to fit this awkward size window, so went on a mission to do it myself. I looked all over the internet, this is the best instruction that I found. I ordered all the supplies from Sailrite, which I was very pleased with the quality and price. It took several weekend days for me to finish, if it is a standard sized window the project would not be too bad. I saved a ton of $$$ too doing it myself. Had a lot of fun with this and will definitely be doing another roman shade soon. Thank you so much for this great video!

[@SailriteDIY]

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing about your project results. Good Job!!!!

[@kayliblundell1567]

I was looking for a precise, straightforward tutorial that didn't describe itself as "no-sew" or make any promises of corner-cutting. Sailrite's video was the one for me, the best one of all the videos AND websites! I'm very new to sewing, not to mention clumsy when it comes to measuring things correctly, and was still able to complete this tutorial without a problem. I love that they tell you EXACTLY what to buy - down to the product number from their website. I found their prices competitive and ended up purchasing a lot of the supplies from them. Kinda felt like it was the least I could do!

[@SailriteDIY]

I am so glad that we could help and that you loved the video! Let us know if you have any questions and good luck with your roman shades. Thanks!!!

[@marvareynolds7380]

Thank you. I do agree with Sarah about using pocket. I was surprised to see the rods attached with glue but I did enjoy the video

[@Naturelover00023]

very nice tutorial, a bit long but worth every second thanks for sharing and the lady did a beautiful job

[@maryvalentine9090]

Good instructional video. Thanks for posting. The narrator's speaking mannerism reminds me of 3rd grade instructional/educational movie reels from the 1950s and 60s.

[@LizakiSmith]

Thanks for a great, straightforward tutorial! I'll definitely be using this to make some blinds for my house!

[@SailriteDIY]

Great! Let us know if you have any questions about the process or materials we stock.

[@kelllauget6813]

I have been looking for a good tutorial for weeks. This one is, by far, the most detailed and professional one. Not to mention how nicely narration. Thank you for the generous time and best lesson ever.

[@SailriteDIY]

Wow, thanks!

[@leslieandersen5632]

Wow! What a great video-really helpful. Well paced and informative, I now have the confidence to tackle making Roman shades.

[@SailriteDIY]

Great! Let us know if you have any questions about the project or supplies you need.

[@jkl9004]

This is the third set of shades I am making from this site; beautiful! Very easy to follow and understand THANK YOU

[@SailriteDIY]

Excellent, good job! Thanks for your positive comment.

[@fancy39]

Beautiful! Absolutely going to make these!

[@mafaldareina]

Excellent tutorial. Thank you.

[@marcellawilliams5903]

Wow! awesome job on this tutorial.......thanks for sharing...Jamaica.big up!

[@karennelson662]

I love this tutorial! I have used it many times and my Customers have been very very happy with the product. It's been really nice to be able to order the hardware also from you.

[@SailriteDIY]

Glad it has been helpful!

[@clbrandenburg]

Amazing instructions, best roman shade how to video out there. Thank you so much for making this awesome detailed video you guys rock!

[@janetmccall65]

This is the best tutorial I have seen anywhere, thank you!

[@SailriteDIY]

+Janet McCall Thanks!!!

[@dorahernandez4105]

Thank you. I appreciate the very clean work and thorough explanation. Nicely done!

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks!

[@heybaby2010]

Thank you. Very detailed. I greatly appreciate this video!

[@SailriteDIY]

+heybaby2010 You are welcome! Let us know if you have any questions.

[@gertrudestuazon7476]

Thank you! for showing, at least I observed how they made it, good enough.🤔

[@lanaluna562]

There are definitely a variety of details like that to take into consideration. That is a nice point to bring up. I offer the thoughts above as common inspiration but clearly there are questions like the one you deliver up where crucial thing will probably be working in honest good faith. I don?t know if best practices have emerged around issues like that, but I am sure that your job is clearly identified as a good game. Each boys and girls really feel the influence of just a second’s pleasure, for the remainder of their lives.

[@deepak2cool89]

I logged in to say THIS IS BEST TUTORIAL GOOD WORK

[@SailriteDIY]

+Deep Jangid I am glad you liked it. Let us know if you have any questions.

[@Sunandascrafts]

I must thank you for making such a detailed video on DIY roman shades. It is the best one . I wish I could show you mine after making one on my own.

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks! I hope yours came out great!

[@thefabricexchange]

wonderful video, exactly what I like

[@gladysgonzalez4408]

Que buen video, !! Muchas gracias por compartir sus conocimientos, para los que estamos aprendiendo son ustedes verdaderos maestros. Gracias!!!

[@SailriteDIY]

+gladys gonzalez Muchas gracias por sus comentarios positivos!

[@mukabika1427]

I am very greatful guys for giving us detailed information about this project.Thank you!!!!

[@SailriteDIY]

Your Welcome!!!

[@lanaackermann9018]

Wonderful video. So clear. Thank you

[@jeevanraj5305]

Finally found an actual tutorial. Thanks.

[@irenemoreaux4446]

How I wish I had seen this video before I made my first set of Roman shades. The hardware I purchased have since broken and they were not easy to make. Thank you very much for this excellent video and wonderful instructions. We shall be purchasing all future window treatment hardware and fabrics from your company.

[@SailriteDIY]

I am so glad you liked it, and thanks for your future purchases at Sailrite!

[@aserotkin]

Love Love Love. Thanks, your saving me hundreds of $$!

[@newhorizon1521]

thank you for this good and simple idea i will try to make it

[@MeganZopf]

I was real impressed with the detail of this video. I am not sure I'd ever make these myself (although I love the look) but as someone who loves to make things, this was a great video!! I'm still in the process of building my tiny house so was looking for ideas!! Good job!

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks, we are glad you liked it. Let us know if you have questions.

[@marcelacorral8320]

Muy bien explicado ,muchas gracias ,me aclaro muchas dudas , felicitaciones desde Chile.

[@orchidee1414]

Merci 💐beaucoup🌺 très intéressant🇩🇿🇩🇿🇩🇿

[@neverancha]

Muchas gracias por compartir sus conocimientos. Exelente!! desde Venezuela..

[@starboard6372]

What a fantastic video. THANK you so much for sharing this! WHAT a GEM Angela is....Wow. Not only did I never think I could make one a Roman shade, I never thought I'd even figure out how to USE one! LOL!

[@SailriteDIY]

Glad you liked it!

[@oli230]

This was excellent. Thank you.

[@naderachkar1231]

great video...we need more of this videos !

[@susanmorse7430]

Love it, easy tutorial.

[@cocrea7754]

Oh my gosh wondeful love yr demonstration and video.thanks

[@janasensat7230]

Wow! You guys are so awesome! Thanks for sharing this! I will be ordering stuff to make my roman shades soon!

[@SailriteDIY]

Hope they turn out great!

[@sarahsurgenor1051]

if you want to be able to wash the shades every now and then do not use glue for the wood dowels, use small strips of leftover fabric to make a pocket to slide the dowels in and out for washing. i get bad allergies so washing the drapes is a good practice when you can't breathe in the spring time.

[@SailriteDIY]

Excellent suggestion!

[@LauraDoubekKraft]

Adding to Sarah's excellent suggestion, wash the fabric and lining before sewing anything. Some decorator fabrics shrink quite a bit, and you want the shade to fit the window after washing. Also, the lining and face fabric might shrink unevenly if not prewashed. This is a great video, I've made many of these in the past, and the explanation is perfect.

[@SailriteDIY]

Very good advice! Thanks!

[@newworldmystic]

+Sarah Surgenor Where to you put the dowels if you are using pockets? I'm assuming that they have to be not inside between the fabric and lining.

[@joshgrossmann8217]

Hope

[@negapetinatti962]

Perfeito! Excelente tutorial ... irei fazer a minha com todas essas explicações 🙏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@cristinatepsick2302]

Thank you so much!!! Wonderfully detailed instructions!!

[@ngalindon]

This is very helpful , Thank you.

[@Mike-sl7be]

thanks for letting people to know on how to make that roman shade curtain,i really love to do it also..i think i could do it..again thank you for the tutorial..very nice and easy to understand.

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks! You are welcome!

[@Barbaieanne]

Excellent video. I’m going to use this to make Roman shades for my 3 living room windows. Thank you!!

[@SailriteDIY]

Great! Let us know if you have any questions.

[@jonathanbentrim2877]

AWSOME!!!! THANK YOU

[@savethemolfins]

Fantastic. Best tutorial for Roman shades I’ve seen.

[@SailriteDIY]

Glad you think so. Thanks!!!

[@pamd1016]

Great video, clear instructions, beautiful shades. I love the narrators voice:) I think if that other person is concerned about child safety, do like the old timers tie the cord up higher, although you made the cords high enough that a child couldn't get them in the first place. I don't think its that complicated.

[@charlottejpriestley8934]

I love these! This video gets me thinking I can do this if I take my time! Thank you. The other vids are over complicated!!!!! I live in a cold climate and these shades make a huge difference when it comes to keeping cold/heat out as long as you use heavy material found in the home dec section at Micheal's. They are not as hard as they seem. Key is taking your time. For me anyway. I have one done and eight more to go! =)!

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks and Awesome! Keep sewing and enjoy your new shades.

[@PibbleMom297]

Quite some time ago I decided to make Roman shades to replace the horrible, old, grubby cellular shades in my sewing room. I found and bought fabric and lining I like, have washed them gently so my shades can be washable too (no more grubbies on my windows!) and began watching videos on how to make them. I've been sewing for over 60 years now and I'm not afraid to sew anything, but I've been a bit intimidated about making these - until now! Can't say how many Roman shade videos I've watched, but it's been a lot! Some of them were quite labor-intensive, some were too confusing, some had good ideas but still too many steps, some were over-complicated and made me think there has to be an easier way! Well, I found it in YOUR video - it's the simplest and the most straight-forward that I've found. I'm now ready to start cutting and sewing. Congrats on a great video and thanks. p.s. I've also been watching some of your other great videos, particularly the one on re-upholstering a recliner. It's great, and gives me the encouragement I need to re-upholster one of mine.

[@SailriteDIY]

Wow, thanks for the great comments!!!! Sailrite strives to supply the best fabrics, tools and supplies, but also hundreds of free tutorial videos to our customers. If you have not already done so, be sure to subscribe and click the thumbs up for this video! We appreciate it very much!

[@isakyoucef843]

The best tutorial i have ever seen . Thank you

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks!!!

[@safanathan7789]

Thank you Sailrite :)

[@vferizovic4984]

Thank you so much for this video. Such clear instructions and very informative video

[@SailriteDIY]

You're very welcome!

[@coolapps9585]

His voice makes me feel so comfortable and sleepy

[@brucecraig7867]

Thank you Sailrite. I did a lot if research, yours was the best. I would have chickened out without your step by step instructions. They turned out beautifully.

[@katrasho100]

The best video in you tube to me about roman curtains

[@SailriteDIY]

Thanks we are glad you liked it.

[@oliviaesquivelesparza4129]

Muy bien explicado, saludos cordiales de México 🇲🇽

[@Quasisewdoe]

What a great video!

[@teresagiddenspaul2959]

This is A great tutorial!!

[@ravenmeyer3740]

Thank you. This is a keeper.

[@kanymkulova_dinara]

Thank you guys so much!

[@SailriteDIY]

RusDiva Akhmatovy You are welcome!

[@vadimcernei9465]

great video. thank you!

[@ellesilk]

great work, love it!

[@leetomlee7265]

Very well made. Thanks for showing.

[@SailriteDIY]

You are welcome! Let me know if you have any questions.

[@thanhtuu2]

Love this . Thank you

[@chmit5524]

This is the most helpfull video i have ever seen!

[@Pasha_Gruz]

Hi Matt! Thank you for you DIY. its new level for me. Thank from Russia! I hope. when i will accumulate enough money. I will be you customer! best regards

[@juliannetully1656]

Very informative video. Thank you.

[@rdaburto8616]

Very good video, thanks.