Thanks, Penny!
I posted this image yesterday. Penny wrote in, wondering if the curtain rod could be reduced in width so more of the vertical trim would show.
Why…yes!
Yes, indeed. Much better! Thank you, Penny!
NOTE: The curved windows are still drape-less because I have not yet figured out how to curve the curtain rod.
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Flexible PVC! You can paint it, gild it, whatever! You can add traditional finials, supports, etc. Or leave it simple! That’s my go-to.
I’d say a conduit bender, but that’s probably too much curve.
That is my plan.
Cooper tubing WILL bend. I just need to find out how to do it.
I know my dad had pipe benders. Or whatever they are called. Do you have a plumber friend? He/she may be able to lend a hand, a tool, or at least give some instructions as to how to get the copper to conform to correct curve.
Ross I had an idea–mold the copper inward or convex to match the inward curve of the window– should be a nice look and pleasing when the drapes are hung in the bays.
Love Penny’s idea–drapes look lovely.
Also the ends might be tricky but I know you will find the perfect way.
Ross, yes! the wood trim showing to the side of the curtains…much better. From the picture it looks like the chandelier could be a bit higher- but I am not present in the room and you would know…being an expert on antique lighting. It hides the upper part of the room a bit in the picture.
Hi Mary Anne!
In person, the chandelier does not look too low. As you walk around the room, or sit, the walls are all highly visible.
I believe curved rods are made in England. I know I have seen it online.
The company is Hunter and Hyland. There is also the Curtain Pole Co. Both are in the UK.
My middle school has a metal shop and I’ve always been tempted to see who the family knows with kids that age who could finish a small project for me in class. Barring a similar use of child labor, are there any tool libraries or publicly usable workshops near you, or is that just a big city thing?
That does give it a more polished look. Another little detail to file away for when I redo my curtains.
This is just an idea for bending the curtain rods. I’m not sure if this will work. I can see it. Don’t know if I can explain it.
I’m thinking some kind of a bending jig. Take a flat surface like on old table or maybe plywood. Figure out the window curve and draw it on the surface. Then attach thick wood blocks or drill in big pins/dowels along the arc. Clamp pipe at one end and bend it around the outside.
Wow!!!! Ross!!! I was extreamly excited this morning when I realized there was a post directed to me. I am giddy with excitement. ☺️
Several years ago I bought all the woodwork out of a 1890’s home that was to be torn down. I have installed it in most rooms of my 1928 home that had moldings that were from 70’s. I even went as far as to make little blocks to hold curtain brackets and install them on the inside of the window frame. By doing this it shows off even more of the beautifully carved wide moldings.
I’m hoping that my sister and I will be able to come back this summer and see your progress on your wonderful home. She is feeling much better lately so maybe she will be able to see the upstairs.
I absolutely love this blog. Your writing make me feel as if I have a personal connection with you, and I expect other readers feel the same way.
Have a great day, Ross!
Ross, this is really a dumb question. I’m laying myself out for critics but here goes…
Gee Ross what does/would it look like with a straight rod between the casings? That way the window trim would be visible also. Is the glass THAT concave/convex to obstruct?
Straight rods on my curved windows?
Oh, the horror! The horror!
Now, I need to lay down on the divan…
I love how creative you are Ross…BUT…I wonder if you are not overthinking this whole curtain thing?
The windows in themselves are decorative enough. Why cover them up at all? It takes away from their beauty. 🙁 Some discreet blinds that match the trim would be a far better option in my opinion.
Hi Elin!
Blinds do not offer 100% privacy.
Draperies do.
Strangers frequently walk onto the porch of the Cross House and peer through the windows. This always FREAKS me out. So, draperies!
Plus, rooms sound better with draperies.
Find a local machine shop and make some new friends!!
Ask around and find someone with a tubing bender – not a small hand bender, but a proper one. A rotary tube bender will give a consistent arc. All you need to do is figure out the degree of bend that you need.
Try the 3/8 “PEX” pipes! You can paint any exposed part!
FYI.. All electricians know how to use a pipe bender. And many own multiple sized pipe benders. For bending metal conduit that wire goes in. I have 5 brothers that are electricians! The local hardware where I am sure you have purchases many things probably would let you bring in your copper tubing or pipe or what have you, and let you use theirs.
Two bending solutions:
–
1. Pipe bender on Amazon…
https://www.amazon.com/TEKTON-6519-Three-Size-Tubing-Bender/dp/B000NPUKVQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1498743000&sr=8-3&keywords=tube+bender
2. in winter you can plug one end, fill with water, allow to freeze, bend manually without worrying about crimping.