Fabric Roman Shades

Relaxed roman fabric shades are the picture of easy comfort, featuring a gentle, relaxed swag along the bottom hem. Narrow shades have a single swag; wider shades will have more.

Roman shades come in a variety of materials including bamboo and canvas. But the standard material is basic fabric, of which you can pick from a limitless option of patterns, weights and types. If you are sewing them yourself they sky’s the limit.

When buying fabric for roman shades consider these things:

• *How much light you want in the room – do you want complete light blocking or some light to come through?
• *Is cost a factor? You can get great fabrics on clearance sales but they may not perfectly match. I tend to find my favorite fabrics are more expensive.
• *Do you need enough fabric for a double roman shade? This would give you even more light blocking ability but would effectively double your fabric costs as well.
• You can get beautiful sheer fabrics for roman shades that allow more light but less privacy. By doubling up on the fabric you would add more privacy and give a different look to your Victorian theme.

Roman shades can be combined with other window treatments to give an even more unique look. You can decorate sheer blinds with heavier curtains around it, giving you the option to close the curtain panels and block even more light.

Many fabric roman shades come lined with a neutral color so your bright patterned fabric in the main room doesn’t show to those on the street outside. This gives you beauty inside without affecting your curb appeal and prevents a pattern or color clash with your home’s exterior.

Fabric roman shades can be cleaned with vacuuming and spot cleaning. Depending on your fabric of choice you could try machine washing but be careful of any manufacturer cleaning notices. The rougher washes can sometimes remove the pleating and general lay of the fabric.

Many people will use a heavy velvet fabric for the ultimate in privacy and room darkening. These are most often used in bedrooms. If you consider this for a nursery (babies sleep later with room darkening blinds) be aware of the odor absorbing nature of the fabric. In infant and children’s rooms you can treat the fabric with anti-static or stain-resistant finishes.

There are many other fabric options  as well. Taffeta, Jacquard, Striped, Polyester, Cotton and Poly/Cotton blends are just a few of the choices you have. The possibilities are almost endless. You can even get bamboo roman shades if you prefer.