How to Make Window Coverings Out of Butcher Block Paper

Create one-of-a-kind window coverings by using accordion-folded butcher block paper.

Butcher block paper is often incorporated into craft and artwork such as scrapbooks. It is a sturdy paper that can be purchased in widths up to 72 inches and colors other than plain white or brown. For the crafter who wishes to create unique window treatments, using butcher block paper lets you use your imagination without the high cost of fabric. You can even use this type of paper to create a window covering with accordion pleats.

Things You'll Need

• Butcher block paper
• 1/2-inch diameter dowel rods
• Cardboard
• Measuring stick
• Scissors or knife
• Drill
• Paint, glitter or markers (optional)
• Staple gun
• Glue
• Ribbon or cord

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the window, using the tape measure. Measure from where you plan to hang your curtains -- whether on the wall around the window frame or on the frame itself.

2. Purchase butcher block paper wide enough to fit the width of the window and long enough to cover the length. With this window covering, add at least 20 percent to the measured length to take into consideration the pleats. Measure and cut the paper.

3. Decorate to fit the decor of the room in which you'll hang the window covering. If you didn’t buy butcher block paper with a decorative pattern, create your own. Lay out the paper on a table. Use templates, markers, paint or glitter to create unique designs to fit the room's decor.

4. Fold accordion-style pleats. Pick the width of the accordion planks you wish to make, measure and mark. From top to bottom, fold the butcher block paper into accordion pleats or planks, making sure each is exactly the same size as the next. At each fold, run your fingernail, a ruler or other object along the fold to create a sharp, solid crease.

5. Cut holes in the ends of each accordion plank. At each end of the pleats or planks, cut hopes using a punch or drill. Center the holes in the planks and cut them 2 inches or more from the end. The holes must be in the same place on each plank, so they will line up exactly for the cord.

6. Fasten to the dowel rods. Use 1/2-inch diameter dowel rods, making the top rod 3 inches wider than the butcher paper shades, on both sides, and making the bottom rod 1 inch wider on both sides. Paint these to match the shades or in a neutral color such as black. Glue or staple the butcher block accordion paper window coverings to the dowel rods.

7. Add the ribbon or cord. Measure the length of the open window coverings. Double the measurement, and add another 12 inches to find the length of ribbon or cord required for each side of the window coverings. Run the ribbon or cord from the top, through the holes to bottom on both sides. Tie off on the lower dowel rod. Run the rest of the ribbon or cord over the top of the upper dowel rod.

8. Hang your creation on the window. Purchase and install curtain rod brackets on either side of the window. Set the upper dowel rod into the brackets, and let the shade hang down over the window.

9. Raise the shades, by pulling gently on the cords. To keep them raised, loop the cord around the upper dowel rod and secure with a small, plastic clothespin or other clip.

References

• Networx: 6 Cheap Ways to Cover Windows
• Butcher Block Counters: Butcher Block Paper