Materials:
tape measure
circular saw
staple gun with 3/8" staples
hammer
fabric batting
1/4" luan plywood
1"x4" pine board
2d nails
wire brads
power drill/screwdriver
2" L brackets
drywall screws
safety equipment
Steps:
- After selecting the fabric, measure the window and decide on the placement of the cornice. Position it so that it will cover all drapery and blind hardware, and still allow for movement both. Add an extra two inches, plus the thickness of the 1" x 4" (which is 3/4 inch) for a total of 2-3/4 inches on each side of the measurement of the sheer rod or blinds.
- You will be building a U-shaped frame for the plywood facing to attach to. This frame will then be used when attaching the fabric. Cut a 1" x 4" board to the length necessary for the top piece of the frame (don't forget those extra inches). Cut the two side pieces that will attach to the top board. The height of the side pieces is up to you. For the featured project, 15 inches was the frame height. Play around with the sides until you have the right height for the cornice. Attach the top piece to the side pieces using 2d nails. The top board should be placed on top of the side boards. Don't worry about strength at this point--once the plywood is put on the frame, the cornice will have all the support it needs. Remember, the frame will be covered with fabric so don't be concerned with setting the nail heads.
- Measure the outside dimension of the frame and cut out a piece of plywood that will fit on top of it. Use wire brads to attach the plywood to the frame.
- Attach the batting to the frame. Do this by placing the batting on top of the plywood. Fold the batting over the frame side pieces to the reverse side, similar to wrapping a present. Don't pull the batting too tight as it will stretch out. Staple it in place, making sure to do this to the back of the frame (not the exposed side).
- Attach chosen fabric in the same manner. If there is a distinctive pattern, watch that it stays straight on the frame. Start in the center of the frame and work out to the end. The concern here is keeping the fabric straight and taut to the frame.
- Attach two-inch L-brackets in the wall with drywall screws at least one inch above the drapery rods so as not to hinder their operation. Then place the cornice board in position and attach the board to the secured brackets. Substitute L-brackets with picture hanging hooks if you are concerned about taking the cornice down often. Attach them to the sides of the frame, and then place nails into the wall for them to hang on.
Note: If the cornice is to be painted, fill all holes with a spackle compound and sand when dry. Prime the surface and sand when dry. Apply a finish top coat of latex satin paint in desired color.
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