DIY Faux Canopy

Create a faux bed canopy without a four-poster bed.

A faux canopy provides ambiance and personality to any bed. In a shared bedroom, a canopy over each bed provides additional privacy. Over one bed, a faux canopy provides a level of luxury that is surprisingly budget-friendly. A canopy is not just for females. With fabric like plaids, subtle stripes, black silks and sheers, a canopy looks good even in a masculine bedroom. Other popular fabric choices are geometric-printed sheers and cottons. Match or contrast; the creative options are limitless. Change the faux canopy on a whim; it is very affordable and practically effortless to install.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• 4 curtain rods
• 8 finials
• 4 curtain rod hooks/brackets
• 8 to 12 ready-to-hang curtain panels
• 8 to 12 yards ribbon, minimum 2-inch width
• Hand sewing needle
• Thread to match ribbon color
• Drill
• Goggles
• Ladder
• 3 to 4 matching pillows
• Matching blanket
• Small audio speakers
• Wall art
• 2 wall sconces

Instructions

1. Measure the exact length and width of the bed on the ceiling (Point A). Add 2 inches on all ends and mark again (Point B). Use Point B to purchase the same lengths for the curtain rods; purchase the finials (decorative ends of curtain rods) appropriate to the room's decor theme.

2. 

   Ready-to-hang curtain panels make faux canopies a snap to create.

   Use Point B to determine the number of curtain panels needed to cover the entire bed. Ideally, each side should have two curtain panels.

3. Mark the center of each curtain panel. Sew on a ribbon at each center point to serve as curtain tie-backs (optional).

4. Drill holes to mount decorative curtain brackets on walls or the ceiling at Point B. There should be two curtain brackets by each corner of the bed, about 4 inches apart (in only one direction), to accommodate the finials.

5. Slide the curtain panels onto curtain rods. Put up the panels and rods onto brackets. Screw on finials as each rod is mounted.

6. 

   Tie back curtains on each corner of the bed with previously sewn ribbons.

   Draw the curtains to enclose the bed for a final check; all poles, curtain brackets, finials and curtains should be attractively aligned, spaced apart and facing the right directions for decorative hook brackets (all facing out or all facing in). Draw open all side curtains and those at the foot of the bed toward each corner, and tie back with the previously sewn ribbons. Leave the headboard curtains closed to create a dramatic backdrop.

7. Prop up pillows against the headboard and tuck the blanket tightly into the mattress to finish the look.

Tips & Warnings

• Mount small speakers by the headboard for music-induced sleep.

• Install artwork and wall sconces by the head of the bed to create an option for when the headboard curtains are tied back.

• Create a luxurious look by deliberately "pooling" excess fabric on the floor.

• Faux canopy should be put up with two people to avoid accidents.

• Use goggles while drilling holes.

References

• YouTube; DIY Bedroom Canopy & A Plan for Fabric-Covered Closet Doors; eckokinddesign; May 2010

Resources

• You Paid More Than Me; Faux Canopy Bed; Steph; March 2009