Your flowing fishtail swag works with your decor, whether it has a country, city chic or eclectic vibe. With the help of scarf holders or decorative hooks, your curtain drapea gracefully with soft folds around the top and sides of your window. The fishtail curtain can hang alone or complement other window treatments to enhance your room decor and fram your view to the outside world.
Attach scarf holders or decorative hooks above each upper corner of your window frame. If you prefer an arch effect, attach additional hooks above the center area of your window frame.
Press your swag with a warm iron. Place the cooled swag on a large, flat surface.
Fold your swag back and forth, starting with the long fishtail side, to resemble a fan or accordion. Experiment with different widths for the folds.
Cut two or more strips of paper with scissors to form bands to keep the folds in place. Tape the overlapping paper ends around the swag for a temporary tie. Try tying without creasing the fabric.
Ask a friend to help you bring your swag to the hooks and keep the fabric off the floor. Insert the ends through the holder’s holes or gently lift and rest the fabric on the hooks. Cut away the paper bands.
Arrange the swag so the drooped section hangs to the preferred depth in relation to the window frame. Gently pull the long edge for a straight line across the top. Stand back and see if the tails end at the same height off the floor for a symmetrical look. If you prefer an asymmetrical effect, let one fishtail hang lower than the opposite tail.
Things You Will Need
- Scarf holders or hooks
- Iron, ironing board
- Paper for tie bands
- Straight pin
- Fold the length of the scarf in half and attach a straight pin at the fold to mark the center. This pin will help you center the scarf above the frame for symmetry.
- Place a press cloth over the swag as you press to avoid shine and scorching. Some synthetics melt under the direct heat of a hot iron.
- Stand on a sturdy stepladder or chair, if necessary, and take care as you balance yourself.
- If you prefer a decorative pole, wrap the fishtail swag around the pole diagonally at uniform intervals and arrange the drooping sections for an even depth.
- Insert pushpins to help keep the top edge of the swag horizontal with the top of your window frame.
- Keep children and animals away from the sharp tools, iron and stepladder.
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