Custom Window Cornice
A window cornice is a great way to enhance the appearance of any room. It is also a great way to express yourself artistically, and to hide those unattractive curtain rails and curtain tops. What's more, it's easy to make, and good for customising, so it's the perfect project for any DIY enthusiast with an artistic leaning. In this article, we will discuss how to make your custom window cornice from scratch, and show you just how easy it can be to spruce up your home.
What you will Need
Your custom window cornice can really be made very simply. All you will need to begin with is appropriate timber to make the box shape, a mitre saw, some nails, and some finishing, decorative panelling of your choice.
It may also be quite helpful to consult DIY books, or to get something down on paper to give you an idea of what you're hoping to achieve, and give you some reference for measurements and the overall design. Try not to complicate things initially, and you will see the benefits of a solid foundation, from which you can create that artistic finish.
The Process
To begin with, start by measure up your dimensions around the top of your curtain. Measure the height of area you want to cover, the length of the curtains and also the depth. If you get the depth wrong, your custom window cornice could look too flush, or become too overbearing so it is a good idea to consider this thoroughly. Next, start making the box.
To begin with mark the timber with a pencil slightly over your measured sizes. Remember it is better to have too much wood than too little, and the same can be said for any material you're working with. Nail the box together, cutting mitre joints if desired for a closer fit if space is a factor. You should have three sides - two short, and one long forming an almost "E" shape against your wall.
Test Fit
At this point it is a good idea to measure it against your curtains to see if you are on the right track - mistakes can be corrected or altered much easier now than later on! Next, you want to cut mitres in your decorative timbre, and attach to the bottom and top of your E shape, thus creating the top and bottom of your box. Attach them over the box, almost as you would with a baseboard, for that professional finish.
Smoothing the whole thing with sandpaper will further help in getting that professional look you desire. Now it's time to varnish or paint your custom window cornice. This is where you can really let the creative juices flow, and design your finish to your taste. Once you have allowed it to dry, it's time to hang it over your curtain rail and admire.
It really is such a straightforward DIY project for anyone with the time and inclination to make a real difference to their interior. And the beauty of it is, you can design your custom window cornice in absolutely any way you like, so it can be truly original and truly personal, whilst still looking professional and stylish. Try it today - build your custom window cornice, and hide that ugly curtain rail now.