DIY A Custom Blackout Shade That's Actually Pretty

If you're the type of sleeper that tosses and turns the minute light hits your eye, you might want to consider installing a blackout roller shade in your bedroom. These shades are also ideal for rooms where you watch television or work on your PC since they'll keep your screens glare-free. While they're incredibly functional, the only drawback to blackout shades is that most of them tend to be quite plain — or even somewhat of an eyesore. If you're someone who appreciates a more elevated aesthetic, you might consider painting your roller shades. Alternatively, you can DIY your own blackout shade by attaching pretty fabric or wallpaper to it.

By making a custom shade, you can also tailor it to match with particular elements of your room. For example, if your walls sport wallpaper, you might attach it to the blackout shade for a seamless look. On the other hand, if you'd like your blackout shades to make more of a statement, you might consider attaching a bold-patterned fabric to them or painting them in a vibrant new hue. Whatever you decide, there are several easy ways you can turn a boring blackout shade into a stylish window treatment for your space.

Before customizing your blackout shade, decide whether you want a standard or reverse roll shade. On a standard shade, the material rolls off from the tube's back. Conversely, on a reverse shade, the material rolls off from the tube's front. While it might seem like a small difference, on a standard shade, the material is closer to your window, blocking out more light. It also doesn't protrude away, allowing you to layer it with other treatments. On the other hand, a reverse shade will result in a cleaner look and works best for windows that have cranks or handles that stick out.

To create either type of shade, you'll first need to measure the width and height of your window. Then, you'll need to decide if you'd like to mount your shade on the inside of the window or on the outside. This will affect how wide your rod and fabric need to be, so be sure to account for this when determining what size rod you need. For an inside mount, these UFURMATE Inside Mount Brackets would work well, while these Kowibcl Outside Mount Brackets are ideal for an outside mount. Once you've determined how you want to mount it and how wide your rod needs to be, you can either buy an existing blackout roller shade like this Mainstays Blackout Tear-to-Fit Shade from Walmart and customize it, or you can use a kit to build your roller shade from scratch (you'll have to cut the rod to size if you go with this option).

To customize an existing shade, unroll the blackout fabric from the rod. If you'd like to paint or stencil the fabric, use a paint that dries to a flexible finish like vinyl or fabric paint. To cover the shade with wallpaper, cut a piece to the same size as your blackout fabric. Follow a similar technique if you want to cover it with fabric, but add 2 inches to the width and 2 inches to the bottom. Fold over the raw edges by 1 inch on each side and sew (or glue) the hem. Spray the blackout fabric with adhesive and attach the fabric or wallpaper on top. Work in small sections and smooth it as you go. Fold over the excess 2 inches of fabric at the bottom and sew, leaving the center hollow so you can insert a plastic or wood dowel to give the fabric some weight. Lastly, roll the fabric onto the rod in either a reverse or standard direction.

There are numerous ways to make this budget-friendly window treatment look more high-end. You could attach fringe trim along the bottom edge of the shade, or add a border detail with ribbon around the sides and bottom. Love a scalloped detail? Add a lace trim with a scalloped edge along the bottom. To make it easier (and prettier) to raise and lower the shade, clip a decorative shade pull like this Shade Doctor of Maine Snap-On Metal Ring Pull onto the bottom center. Want to hide the roller rod at the top? Hang a valance in a matching or coordinating fabric.