Among the lesser recognized but more essential values presented by roman shades is that they can display art in a multi-media setting. In this case, multi-media is not referring to sound, visual, and other effects. It means integrating interior design, window coverings, and visual art into a functional and aesthetic addition to any room.
Roman shades, particularly those of the flat nature, present a canvas that may cover the most significant area apart from the floor or ceiling or the wall itself. Often the area being managed by the window covering is 12 square feet or more. When coated with drapery, the eye is led to the drapery’s soft folds and color pallet, but usually not to the real design of the fabric itself. Other types of window coverings, such as blinds, pleated shades, and natural window shades, are often monochromatic and usually neutral. Custom roman shades, as would be made by the DIY’er or a roman shade artist, almost always make use of decorative face fabric. The material may be dress-weight material, drapery goods, sheeting, or anything else that is fitting. The beautiful cloth can be anything that is of a similar weight to these, but it must be durable. That opens up a range of possibilities.
If you are aesthetic and are somewhat skilled with fabric paints, it is effortless to create a personalized work of art. Now imagine a, say 2 foot by 3 foot, canvas stretching on the wall in all its splendor. If that area is also a window, and that painting can be quickly opened and stacked, you have art that can also serve extra functions. If the picture, further, is made into a roman shade, it can also move. Insulation, privacy, decorative values and aesthetics are rolled into one highly functional, beautiful window treatment.
What if you are not used to an artist’s paintbrush? There are endless additional possibilities. For instance, assume what could be done with a plain, lightweight bed pad such as the type that is becoming reasonably priced. They often rival the excellence of an artisan quilt, and some are even handmade. Many are lightweight enough to work as a roman shade.
Since this shade structure may be slightly heavier than usual, it is vital to be sure that the tools and other parts are up to the mark. Insulation and lining are also essential considerations. While the art is working for us, we owe it a long life and protect it from the moisture and sun.
