How to make a Roman blind

Even if you're relatively new to sewing, with the help of Rufflette's kit, you too can make beautiful blinds

Shopping list

* Fabric
* Roman blind kit available from www.rufflette.com
* Aluminium header rail

Directions

1. Decide how big you want your blind to be and cut a piece of fabric 8cm longer and 6cm wider. Iron 1.5cm hem down each side then fold 1.5cm again to make a double hem and pin in place. Fold 3cm then 3cm again at the bottom to make the hem, and iron just 2cm at the top edge. Stitch the two sides and bottom hem – leave one end of the hem open for a batten. Stitch a length of Velcro along the top edge.

2. You need to divide the fabric into equal sections to make neat folds in the blind. Decide on the number of folds and measure and mark with a pencil or pin where each fold will be.

3. Pin the tape along your lines and stitch in place tucking the ends under. This tape will hold the rods and create neat folds and it comes in the kit. Feed rods into the channels in the tape – they should slip in easily.

4. Attach 2 or 3 (depending on blind width) rings to the lowest tape and tie the cord to them, then thread through the loops to the top.

5. Screw a header rail to the window recess – this has the other side of the Velcro attached to it. Thread cords through the rail and knot.

Top tip
There are comprehensive instructions included in the Rufflette kit box as well as all the cords and tapes you need for the blind, so it’s well worth buying.