Window Dressing Without Curtains: Creative Bedroom Alternatives

There are many ways to dress a bedroom window without curtains. Shutters are a popular choice, offering improved light control and privacy, and can be made from wood, faux wood, or vinyl. Frosted or patterned glass is another option, providing privacy while still allowing light to enter the room. For a softer look, Roman blinds offer a streamlined alternative to curtains and can be made from various fabrics. Café curtains are also a good option, providing privacy while still letting in natural light. Other alternatives include lace window screens, window film, and indoor awnings.

Shutters

There are many different styles of shutters to choose from, including:

• Full-height shutters
• Tier-on-tier shutters
• Room divider shutters
• Café-style half-height shutters
• Bi-fold or bypass track shutters
• Arched window shutters
• Round window shutters
• Wardrobe door shutters
• French door shutters

If you're looking for a window covering that provides privacy and light control without compromising on style, shutters are an excellent option.

Frosted glass

Window companies create frosted glass by sandblasting a texture onto sheets of glass. When glass is given a pattern, it is called 'obscure glass'. Although these methods are typically done when windows are manufactured, you can recreate this effect with specially-made films applied to existing windows.

If you want to go without window treatments but still need privacy, frosted or some form of patterned glass will do the trick. Patterned glass today comes in a range of elegant reeded and ribbed patterns, sanitised, frosted, or coloured glass panes—all styles offer a chic, contemporary look and feel to a bedroom, which does not compromise on style.

Lace window screens

Materials and Tools:

You will need lace fabric, preferably thrifted, 1x2 pine wood boards, a staple gun, paint (optional), a compressor, a pneumatic staple gun, a measuring tape, and a hand or power saw.

Step 1 - Measure and Cut the Wood:

Measure the opening of your window, and cut the 1x2 pine boards into four sections, ensuring that the corners are cut at 45-degree angles. These will form the frame for your lace screen.

Step 2 - Assemble the Frame:

Staple the four wood sections together at the corners to create a rectangular frame. You can paint the frame if desired to match your décor or leave it as is for a more rustic look.

Step 3 - Measure and Cut the Lace:

Use the wood frame as a template to measure and cut the lace fabric. Cut the lace slightly larger than the frame, allowing for some overlap when attaching it.

Step 4 - Attach the Lace:

Staple the lace fabric to the back of the frame, pulling it taut as you work to ensure a smooth finish. You can also use a combination of glue and staples for a more secure hold.

Step 5 - Install the Screen:

Place the finished lace screen in your window frame, and close the window slightly to hold the screen in place.

Your DIY lace window screen is now complete! This project is an inexpensive and straightforward way to add privacy, natural light, and a decorative touch to your bedroom. When not in use, you can even use the screens as wall décor, as they complement various styles, including farmhouse, shabby chic, and bohemian.

Additionally, if you're renting or prefer a more temporary option, you can apply lace directly to the glass using a cornstarch and water mixture. This method, as demonstrated by Annabel Vita, provides privacy while still allowing light to enter and can be easily removed with hot water and a sponge when needed.

Cafe-style curtains

When installing cafe-style curtains, you can opt for a rod pocket header, which slides onto a curtain rod, or use curtain rings for a more decorative touch. For a more personalised look, consider adding ring clips or tiebacks.

By choosing cafe-style curtains, you can achieve a balance between privacy and natural light in your bedroom while adding a stylish decorative element to your window.

Venetian blinds

One of the benefits of Venetian blinds is the level of control they offer over light and privacy. By carefully adjusting the angle of the slats, you can ensure your room remains private while still allowing natural light to enter. This feature is especially useful when leaving your home unoccupied, as you can angle the slats to prevent people from seeing into your home without having to block out all light by closing the blinds completely.

Frequently asked questions