Draping Scarves: Creative Ways To Enhance Your Bedroom Curtains

Window scarves are a versatile way to add a decorative touch to your bedroom. They can be draped in a variety of ways to achieve different looks, from elegant and formal to casual and rustic. Whether you want to cover up a curtain rod or accentuate a window, there are several techniques you can use to drape a scarf over your bedroom curtains and instantly elevate the style of your space.

Choosing the right fabric for your scarf

Type of Fabric

The type of fabric you choose will impact the overall aesthetic and functionality of your scarf curtains. Lightweight and sheer fabrics like organza, chiffon, and voile are popular choices for window scarves as they create a soft, airy, and elegant look. These fabrics are ideal for letting in natural light while still providing some privacy. On the other hand, if you want something more luxurious and opaque, velvet is a good option. Velvet is a heavier fabric that creates a dramatic and stately appearance, perfect for formal spaces like dining rooms, living rooms, or master bedrooms.

Seasonality

Consider the time of year and the temperature in your region when choosing your fabric. For warmer months, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Cotton, for example, is highly absorbent and can insulate against both heat and cold. For colder months, consider thicker fabrics like wool or cashmere, which will provide more warmth.

Price and Durability

The price of the fabric will vary depending on the type and quality. Natural fibres like silk, wool, and cotton tend to be more expensive but offer superior durability and breathability. Synthetic fibres, such as rayon, are usually more affordable and can provide similar benefits to natural fibres. For example, rayon is soft, comfortable, and highly absorbent, making it a good budget-friendly option.

Composition and Weave

The composition and weave of the fabric will impact its weight, thickness, and overall quality. A scarf made with large wool threads will be warmer, while a scarf woven with fine wool threads will be lighter and more breathable, even if they are made of the same material. The composition, which indicates the percentage of different fibres used, is usually listed on the scarf's label and can help you determine its quality and price.

Colour and Pattern

The colour and pattern of your scarf curtains can complement the overall aesthetic of your room. Consider the existing colour palette of your space, including your walls, furniture, and other décor. You can choose to match or contrast colours, creating a cohesive or statement look.

In summary, when choosing the right fabric for your scarf curtains, consider the type of fabric, seasonality, price and durability, composition and weave, and colour and pattern. By taking these factors into account, you can create beautiful and functional scarf curtains that elevate the style of your bedroom.

How to drape a scarf over a curtain rod

To drape a scarf over a curtain rod, you can follow these simple steps:

Firstly, measure the length of your window and the desired length of the scarf. Decide how long you want the scarf to hang down on each side of the window. Then, measure the width of your window and double that number to allow for enough fabric to create a draping effect. Add these two numbers together to determine the total length of fabric you will need.

For example, if you want the scarf to hang down 30 inches on each side of a 60-inch wide window, you would need a scarf that is 180 inches long (30 inches x 2) + (60 inches x 2) = 180 inches.

Now that you have your scarf ready, it's time to drape! If you are using a curtain rod, there are a few different ways to drape the scarf:

• Simple U-Shape Drape: Hang the scarf over the ends of the curtain rod, letting the middle of the scarf sag down slightly in a "U" shape. Adjust the scarf to ensure even lengths on both sides.
• Two-Swag Window Scarf: If you have an extra hook in the middle of the curtain rod, drape the scarf around it once, pulling the top of the pleats flat while tugging lightly on the bottom to create a sweeping look.
• Asymmetrical Drape: Create an asymmetrical look by showing parts of the curtain rod and pulling different areas of the scarf. Play around with wrapping the scarf under, tucking it in, or loosely draping it over the end of the rod.
• Three-Swag Curtain Scarf: Wrap the scarf around one-third of the way from each end of the curtain rod. Pull the tops of the pleats tight while loosening the bottoms to create a curved shape.
• Four-Swag Curtain Scarf: Drape each side of the scarf evenly over the middle hook of the rod. Bring the scarf up and over one-quarter of the way to the end of the rod, looping it over and tidying up the swags.
• Five-Swag Curtain Scarf: Start as you did for the four-swag method. Then, drape the scarf over the ends of the rod one-quarter of the way in, allowing it to hang behind the rod. Pull the portion of the scarf hanging over the middle hook down to the front to create the fifth swag.

Feel free to adjust and play around with these methods to find the look that best suits your style and space!

How to drape a scarf with sconces

There are several ways to drape a scarf with sconces, and it can be a great way to add a plush, dramatic touch to your bedroom. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Method 1: Using a Curtain Rod

Step 1: Measure the length of your window scarf. Start by measuring from the curtain rod to where you want the ends of the fabric to hang.

Step 2: Measure the width of your window and double that number. This will give you enough fabric to create a draping effect.

Step 3: Add the length and width measurements together to get the total length of fabric needed.

Step 4: Drape the scarf over the ends of the curtain rod, letting the middle of the scarf hang down in a "U" shape. Ensure both sides have an equal amount of fabric.

Step 5: For an extra decorative touch, you can loop the scarf around the middle of the rod, creating a wavy drape.

Method 2: Using Hooks

Step 1: Install scarf hooks at the corners of the top of the window. Place them 3 inches past the corners, allowing the scarf to drape down the sides.

Step 2: Install another scarf hook in the middle of the top of the window. Measure the width of the window and mark the centre to ensure the hook is placed accurately.

Step 3: Measure the length and width of the window to determine how much fabric you need for your scarf.

Step 4: Hang the scarf over the middle hook, then drape it over the corner hooks, letting the sides hang evenly.

Draping the Scarf with a Sconce:

Step 1: Place the curtains straight out and fold them accordion-style lengthwise. Then, fold the pleated curtain in half and secure it with a pin in the centre.

Step 2: Measure the width of the window from one sconce to the other and divide this measurement by two to find the centre. Mark the centre point at the top of the window with a pencil.

Step 3: Insert the straight pin into the centre mark. Get someone to hold one end of the curtain while you unfold the other end.

Step 4: Remove the pin and slowly pull down the curtain from the centre, creating a crescent-shaped draping. Adjust it to ensure it looks symmetrical from both sides.

You can also add extra details to your window scarf by layering different scarves or adding accessories like bows and ropes. Play with different colours, patterns, and fabrics to create a unique look!

How to hang a scarf with hooks

To hang a scarf with hooks, you can use either a series of hooks or a combination of hooks and a curtain rod. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Using Hooks and a Curtain Rod:

• Pull the scarf up behind one end of the curtain rod.
• Throw the scarf over the front of the curtain rod.
• Let the scarf droop down in the centre of the window.
• For a more subtle look, loop the scarf around the centre of the window, creating two dips instead of one.
• Loop the scarf over the other end of the curtain rod, letting it hang down symmetrically on both sides of the window.
• Adjust the scarf as needed to achieve a symmetrical look.

Using Hooks Alone:

• Place two large, heavy-duty hooks on either side of the window. Ensure the hooks can hold at least seven pounds each.
• Drape the scarf over one hook and then the other, making sure all the material is tucked inside the hooks.
• For a double-dip look, install a third hook at the centre of the window, levelling it with the first two hooks.
• Pull the scarf through the hooks to achieve a symmetrical look.

Before hanging the scarf, it is important to measure the curtain length for proper sizing. First, decide on the length of the "drop" you want for the scarf. Multiply this number by two. Then, measure the width of the window and multiply this number by two as well. Finally, add the two measurements together to get the ideal scarf size.

Additionally, when hanging a scarf, you can try different draping techniques such as the U-shape, asymmetrical, or layered look, depending on your window size and personal preference.

How to add extra details to your scarf

Layering

Layering different scarves can add a regal, elegant look to your windows. You can do this by stretching a scarf straight across the top of the window from hook to hook or along a curtain rod. Then, drape another scarf in front of the first in a U-shape or wrap it around a curtain rod. Play with different fabrics, colours, and patterns to create contrast and depth. For example, try a delicate, lighter-coloured fabric in the back, and a heavier, darker fabric for the front scarf.

Folding and Tying

Lay your window scarf out flat with the front side facing down. Fold the fabric lengthwise in 6-8 inch folds toward you. Then, tie the folds loosely into place at regular intervals with contrasting ribbons or ropes. Drape the scarf with the tied sections hanging down so they stand out.

Accessories

Add details by tying on accessories like bows and ropes. Use embellishments in colours that complement the scarf, such as gold ropes with a purple or burgundy scarf.

Frequently asked questions