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 A Roman Shade is a truly classic window covering. If it was good enough for the Romans, it will certainly look great in your home.
The gentle pleating happens as the shade pulls up from the bottom. Columns of rings on the back of the shade are used to guide lift cords. As the rings stack up, they cause an accordion fold in the shade fabric.
 Sewing Tools You Need
Fabric and Other Supplies
- McCall's pattern M4536, View B
- Natural colored linen, yardage according to pattern
- Lining fabric, yardage according to pattern
- Roman shade rings and cording, according to pattern
- Lightweight wooden 1 x 2 to fit the width of window(s)
- Eyebolts, 2-3 to fit the width of window(s)
- Matching all purpose thread
Getting Started
Follow the instructions provided in the pattern for measuring your window and cut your fabric according to the instructions. A Roman shade is versatile and can be installed over the window, as illustrated on the pattern, or it can fit the window within the window casing for a more tailored look, as shown in our photo sample.
Hints and Tips
Look for pre-made Roman Shade Tape with rings already attached. This tape makes construction quick and easy. Mark the spacing on the shade lining, following the recommendations of the pattern. Position the length of tape by placing a ring at the hem position, then stitch along each edge of the tape.
 For a window treatment with two or more windows, the cords may be threaded to extend to either the left or to the right, so that they hang next to the window casing. Thread the cords through a purchased plastic cord pull. A dot of fray check on each knot will prevent the cord from fraying and coming untied. A cleat, attached to your window molding, is used to tie off the cords so the shade will stay in position when raised or lowered. Making a figure 8 around the cleat is the most secure way to tie the cord.
Mount following pattern instructions. You will staple your finished shade to a 1 x 2 cut to fit the width of the window. Screw eye bolts into the 1 x 2 just above each line of cord, and rig the cords to pull to one side or the other. Place the 1x 2 against the top of the window frame and screw into place.
Roman shades need to be folded into shape a few times until they learn where to fold. After you've mounted them to your window(s), open them and let them stay in the open (folded) position for a few hours. Or just stand there and open and close them until your neighbors think you're sending them a message in Morse code.
Other machines suitable for this project include the Pfaff ClassicStyle Fashion 1523 and the Brother NX-450.
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