How to Use Dowel Rods

Dowel rods are wooden rods that are sold by the yard at most home improvement and craft stores. The dowel is round and is typically available in sizes from 1/8-inch diameter to 1 inch. Some stores will carry smaller and larger sizes and some sell dowels in grab-bag packages in 12-inch lengths. Dowels made of plastics and metals are also available but they are usually called rods and may be less easy to use. In home decorating, dowels are used in many ways.

Things You'll Need

• Dowel rods
• Hand saw
• Miter box

Instructions

1. Cut a wooden dowel rod to the length you need by using a manual miter box and flat hand saw. Position the dowel in the box so that the cut line matches with the slot used for the saw and cut. A short piece of dowel rod (1 inch in length) is often used in the side walls of cabinets and it is used as the bottom support for shelves. Four dowels are needed per shelf.

2. Measure the width of an overstuffed chair cushion (or couch cushion) and cut a 1-inch diameter dowel to length. Arrange a slipcover over the chair and insert the dowel where the back of the chair and the seat cushion join. Work the dowel down under the chair cushion and then tuck and smooth the slipcover in place. The dowel anchors the cover to keep it from riding up when people use the chair.

3. Sew a 3-inch cotton pocket to the back side of a quilt using needle and thread. The pocket should be at least 1/2 inch from the top and sides of the quilt. Thread a large 1-inch diameter dowel through the pocket. Insert two nails in the wall at an angle and hang the quilt on the dowel.

4. Cut a dowel rod that is 1-1/4-inch smaller than the width of a roman shade blind. Open the roman shade tube on the back of a shade and remove a broken dowel. Insert the new dowel and sew the end of the tube shut to repair the roman shade.

5. Drill a hole through the side of a 3/8-inch diameter dowel. Insert wire through the hole and through the guide hole on the side of a pull drape or twist blind. Close the wire with pliers and you can use the dowel to pull drapes open or twist blinds open and closed.

Tips & Warnings

• Dowels are also used in all types of furniture construction. Usually the dowel is glued into holes in both sides of the furniture, creating an invisible connection.

References

• Dick Blick: Wooden Dowel Rods
• Alternative Windows: Roman Blinds
• Berkshire Slipcover Outlet: Styling Tips