A flat Roman shade is a tailored, economical window treatment that controls light and provides privacy. Completely flat when lowered, this style is a good choice layered under tied-back curtains, drapery side panels, or swags.
This shade design is minimal and uncomplicated, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Lining provides added body, prevents fabric fading, and creates a uniform appearance from the outside. A system of evenly spaced rings through which cords are run on the back of the shade makes it possible to raise and lower the shade. The rings are spaced in even columns and rows so the shade will fold neatly at regular intervals when raised.
Choose a sturdy, firm decorator fabric to give the shade a crisp look. Because the shade is absolutely flat when lowered, it is a great way to show off a large all-over print. These directions are suitable for a shade that is at least 2" (5 cm) narrower than the fabric width. If the window is wider, use one full width of fabric for a center panel and add equal, narrow pieces to the sides.
Mounted on a board, the shade can be installed as an inside mount, secured inside the upper window frame, flush with the front of the frame. For an outside mount, the shade is installed on the wall at least 1" (2.5 cm) above the frame. Use a very narrow projection because the shade does not wrap over the ends of the board. To find the finished length of the shade for an outside mount, measure from the top of the mounting board to the sill or ½" (1.3 cm) below the apron; for an inside mount, measure the inside frame to the sill. The finished width of the shade is equal to the length of the mounting board plus ¼" (6 mm).