DIY Simple Cornice Window Treatments

Recently I made a cornice window treatment for my master

bedroom window.  I like to decorate and wanted to jazz up 

these windows and give them a custom look.  I purchased 

the neutral fabric and trim well over a year ago and lets just

say it took me awhile to get inspired.  Sometimes these ideas

take time to mull over.  I decided the neutral fabric would 

coordinate well with my comforter or a future quilt I have in

mind.  Besides I'm sure the Mr. is much happier without a lot

of frills. 

If you are interested in making your own, you can read further
to see what steps I took.

Measure windows and purchase 1 X 4 boards for the frame.
I cut the two end pieces 4" long with a hand miter saw.
Next I measured the width of the window and added another
8"to this measurement.  This allowed for a 4" overhang on
each side.  Adjust this measurement if you have trim molding
or hardware on the outside of your window frame.

I added some Elmer's wood glue and was prepared to hammer
some small nails when the Mr. appeared with his electric brad
gun.  I love it when they step in to make tasks effortless.

Another view of the boards stapled together.

Lay out two layers of warm and natural batting leaving
extra on each side,  enough to staple down on the back
side.   Start from the middle, pull the batting taught and
staple it down with 3/8" staples.

(Sorry no photo's for these next two steps.)

Measure and cut out the fabric and lining for the cornice.
The rule of thumb is to make the cornice one quarter
the size of the total window height, but you can make
it any size you want.  ( My next room will have a higher
cornice almost to the ceiling to give it some height)
Measure and cut the fabric wide enough to wrap around
the back side of the board by 2 1/2" on each side.
I added approx. 3 1/2" to the length measurement to allow
for the hem and enough fabric to fold over the top and
staple on the back side.

Sewing Step

I laid the fabric and lining right sides together and pinned
the trim piece on the bottom side. (decorative trim fancy
side should be facing in towards the right sides of fabric )
Then I sewed up both sides and across the bottom with a
half inch seam allowance.  Also sew across the top
leavings an opening in the top approx. 8"- 9" to turn.
Turn the fabric right side out and iron.  At this point sew
a stitch across the top opening.  You can also top stitch
the hem just above the trim to give a more professional
look.

Lay out the fabric over the board to make sure it fits properly.
Then staple the top and sides to the board.  Start stapling in
the middle and keep the fabric taught as you staple it to the
back of the board.

You will need two L shape brackets to affix the cornice board

to the wall.  I installed them approx. 3"- 4" above the window.

If you have trim molding or a curtain rod you may need to 

adjust this measurement accordingly.  

That's it, stand back an admire the transformation and your
handy work.  A high end look in a couple of hours time.

Side view of cornice and  closeup of trim.

I wanted a more simple look with clean lines.  If you want
a more formal look, you could add a border fabric on the
bottom, cut scallops, add trim, tassels or buttons to the front
or do a number of different styles.

If you decide to make one, please share photo's I would
love to see your handy work.

If you have any questions, I'll be glad to help.  I have one

more cornice treatment to make for the second window in

the master bedroom.  This time I will try to remember to
take photo's of the steps I missed and add them here.  

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!