Anyone who wants to add originality to their bedroom can make a canopy over their bed with their own hands. Usually people try to install the most comfortable and cozy bed in their bedroom, which can have a different style.
However, a special atmosphere in the room is created by various decorative elements, one of which is the canopy. This product is very popular; designers use it when decorating rooms for both adults and children. The design of the canopy is simple, and you can make it yourself, following the instructions.
DIY canopy over the bed
What is a canopy for?
The canopy is an unusual canopy surrounding the bed. It consists of a frame and a textile part that is installed on it.
This unusual interior decoration has been used since ancient times. The canopy first appeared in the East, and was used to limit one’s personal space. In addition, these curtains provided the best protection from drafts.
This product has not lost its popularity even now. After all, this is not only decoration, but also a functional piece of furniture:
- creates a feeling of security and comfort;
- protects against mosquitoes and other insects;
- allows you to retain cool air in the summer;
- in the morning it protects from the penetration of sunlight;
- allows you to zone the sleeping area.
The presence of a canopy in the bedroom allows you to create a unique atmosphere of comfort
Disadvantages of using canopies
Despite the fact that the canopy is a decorative and functional product, it has some disadvantages:
- Dust constantly collects on the fabric, so it will have to be washed regularly. If you are not ready for this, then it is better to abandon this idea altogether, because any pollution is an environment for the development of pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, it is very dangerous for people with an allergic reaction to dust.
- Many people consider the process of caring for a canopy to be too difficult, because they have to monitor the cleanliness of not only the fabric part, but also the frame, and not everyone wants to wipe off dust from the ceiling.
- Such a decorative element visually conceals the space, so it is definitely not suitable for miniature rooms.
- Since the material will have to be washed frequently, for some time only the frame will remain above the bed, which will stand out against the background of the ceiling (the problem is solved by a replaceable fabric part).
Dust constantly collects in the folds of the material, so canopies, especially for children, need to be washed regularly
Important! Above we have listed the features of canopies that are worth thinking about. There is no need to rush into installing a canopy - first you have to evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages.
Everything you need for work
The canopy is considered not only a beautiful accessory for the bed, first of all it performs a practical function. Such a device can protect the bed from prying eyes, and also add special comfort to the bedroom. To make a canopy yourself, you must first decide on its design.
Canopies over the bed can be classic, round, or free-form: the choice depends on the size and shape of the bed.
Before you start work, you need to prepare all materials and tools. Below is a list of materials needed to create a classic canopy:
- textiles - it is better to choose a not very heavy, transparent fabric. The best choice is organza or veil. For a children's bed, you can purchase silk, linen or chintz;
- frame materials. Hollow metal pipes are often used for this. Previously, the base for the canopy was made of wood; today this design is less popular;
- fasteners - you should use only high-quality steel bolts, which will allow the structure to support the weight of the fabric and maintain stability above the bed.
Tools that will be useful are a drill, a screwdriver, screwdrivers, a tape measure, a simple pencil, and a grinder for working with metal. To sew the cape itself you will need a sewing machine, threads, needles, and frill.
Varieties of canopy frames and combination with the interior
There are several basic forms of structural frames on which the fabric is attached. In order to make the right choice, we will look at each of them in more detail, because not all of them can be combined with the overall interior of the room.
Table No. 1. Shapes of canopies
| Frame, illustration | Description |
| Frame "Crown" | The frame in the form of a ring with fabric is mainly installed under the ceiling. Thus, there is a kind of crown above the head. This canopy will best fit into a classic bedroom interior or in the Provence style, because this design creates a truly romantic atmosphere. |
| Frame "Arc" | The frame is a type of arc that is installed directly above the head of the bed. This design is also best suited to classic interior design. |
| Racks | This is a very stable frame with four posts. This canopy can be installed in a room with a modern design. The main advantage of this design is its strength, because it can withstand even heavy material. |
The frame is constructed from various materials. Let's consider the most famous options:
- Cornice made of metal profile. It is sometimes used instead of the standard version; it is fixed to the ceiling around the perimeter of the bed.
- Tube (metal). Fixed to the ceiling with dowels.
- Stands made of plastic, metal and wood. If the bed is made of solid wood, then it is not necessary to purchase the same supports, because they can be either plastic or metal.
You can purchase a ready-made version of the canopy, which only remains to be secured above the bed
Copper corners
Here, as in the previous idea, the curtains are placed at the corners of the bed, but the fasteners are very interesting.
You will need copper water pipe angles (4 pcs.), T-shaped pipe pieces (4 pcs.), copper U-shaped fasteners (12 pcs.) and plugs (8 pcs.), as well as 8 narrow lightweight curtains and 8 wooden sticks of such a diameter that they fit tightly into the corners. If you can't find copper pipes, you can take regular pipes and paint them with copper paint.
Glue the copper pieces to the sticks as in the photo below.
Then put the curtains with a drawstring on the sticks and assemble the structure. Attach the resulting cornices to the ceiling using fasteners - the canopy is ready. The only negative: to wash the curtains, you have to unscrew the curtain rod. You can make cleaning easier by taking curtains with rings rather than drawstrings, but then it’s better to paint the wooden sticks copper so that they don’t stand out too much, or take pipes instead.
How to attach a canopy to a bed?
Here, too, there are several common mounting options. Since the frames are different, the fasteners are different.
Table No. 2. Types of fastenings
| Type, illustration | Description |
| Loops | Typically, Velcro is sewn onto such strips, so that the fabric part can be easily removed and washed. They are usually used on narrow, long frames. |
| Eyelets | They are fastenings in the form of metal rings. They are attached to the edges of the fabric part of the canopy. They are mainly used when hanging heavy, dense material. |
| Braid | A ribbon with loops is sewn onto the edge of the fabric, and hooks are attached to the frame itself, onto which the loops are fixed. |
Sewing master class
When forming a pattern, all the parts need to be sewn together. First of all, processing of the bottom and sides of the fabric is required. When adding lace or satin ribbon to the product, you need to sew on the braid immediately after finishing the edges, since after the skirt is attached, this procedure will be more difficult.
You might be interested in this tutorial on how to sew bags with beautiful ties yourself
Finished product according to the diagram
For a canopy with a skirt, you need to take a wide strip of fabric and sew the main hanging fabric into it. Next, you need to distribute the seam so that it is closer to the top. To do this, it is necessary to iron the fabric so that the seam with the fastening of the main fabric is closer to the top. The width of the skirt should be 15 centimeters, and the length up to 60 centimeters. Finally, you need to secure the product into a ring.
What textile to choose for making a canopy?
Regardless of what material the canopy is made of, it must be combined with the overall interior of the room. Therefore, the fabric must be selected taking into account the following criteria:
- heavy materials such as jacquard and tapestry are best suited for a classic bedroom interior, they look expensive, thanks to which you can create a real royal bed;
- silk and satin are perfect for decorating a baroque room;
- for an oriental interior, you can make various colored tassels on the canopy;
- for a room in a modern style, the frame should not be made heavier - it should be a weightless structure with transparent curtains.
Color palette in the interior
In addition, it is necessary to take into account other nuances when choosing textiles:
- The desired effect can be achieved not only due to the structure of the material, but also patterns. They can be combined with other textile interior elements.
- The color of the material is of no small importance. For a laconic interior, it is necessary to select discreet, plain fabrics. If you prefer a romantic style, then it is better to buy material in pink or red.
To make such an interior item, materials of different structures are used.
Fabric selection
The most suitable types of fabric for sewing a canopy:
- tulle;
- fine linen;
- chiffon;
- silk;
- chintz;
- cotton.
The fabric chosen is durable and wear-resistant - textiles in a children's room are washed very often. Nylon and organza are rarely used, since they are almost completely synthetic. In cold rooms, where there are often drafts, ivy, velvet, tapestry, and knitwear are allowed.
The smoother the textile chosen for sewing, the less dust accumulates on it, which means you can wash it less often.
Making canopies with your own hands
In principle, it is enough to look at photographs of canopies to choose the desired option and understand how to make it. Below we offer step-by-step instructions that will allow you to make different designs without errors.
Hanging option: step-by-step instructions
This is the most primitive design, which is suspended above the berth.
In the process, we will need the following:
- measuring tape or tape measure (depending on what you are used to working with);
- screwdriver;
- sewing machine;
- dowels and screws with hooks;
Special hooks will be used as fasteners
- a simple pencil;
- braid – 400 centimeters;
- any painted wood planks - 2 pieces, 100 centimeters each;
You can pre-paint the shovel handle using a spray can.
- canopy material.
Step 1. First of all, you need to make markings above the sleeping place. To do this, we need to know the length of the wooden planks. On the ceiling itself we place marks on the places where the screws will be inserted - they should be parallel. This means that you will need to secure 2 screws on each side. There should be space between the rows of screws, on average it is about 50-70 centimeters. However, the exact size will vary depending on the width of the bed. For example, if the width of the bed is 150 centimeters, then the distance between the slats will be 70 centimeters. For a two-meter bed, this distance can be increased to 100 centimeters - here you need to take into account your personal preferences.
We put markings on the ceiling
Step 2. Now you should drill holes along these marks and attach the screws there. Next, we tie ribbons to these fasteners so that we get loops.
We tie the loops
Important point! The length of these loops can vary significantly depending on the height of the room. If the ceiling has a standard height of 280 centimeters, then the length of the loops should be about 40 centimeters. If the ceilings are higher, then the loops will be longer.
Step 3. Now you need to take the textile with the processed edges and place it on a flat surface. Next, you should take exactly a whole piece of fabric two rooms high, and plus another 20-30 centimeters. In the middle of this cut it is necessary to select a section of fabric, the width of which will be equal to the distance between the screws. Now you should add a few more centimeters to the resulting value so that the canopy sags over the sleeping area (usually at least 40 centimeters).
During the measurement process, it is necessary to use strips
Step 4. Now you will need to sew the material along these marks. To do this, it is better to use a sewing machine, otherwise you will have to spend too much time on such work. This will give us a hole for the slats. There will be only two pieces of wood in the textile cut.
We sew the fabric
Step 5. As a result, we will have a canopy that will be quite easy to attach to the hinges. It is necessary to put caps on the extreme parts of the cornices, which have a decorative appearance, and thanks to them the fabric will not fly off the cornice during use.
We fasten the canopy to the prepared hinges
Step 6. Now you should distribute the material on different sides of the bed so that it hangs down beautifully.
At this stage, the manufacture of the canopy is completed. You can see that even such a simple bed has acquired an unusual look.
Using the same principle, you can make a canopy in the form of a ring. To do this you will need a regular metal hoop.
Important point! At night, a person can unnoticedly pull the fabric, which is why you should consider a strong fastening, especially if it is a canopy for a children's bed.
On four racks: step-by-step instructions
In this case, the textile part of the structure will be supported on a wooden frame in the form of racks. Of course, it will take more time to make such a product, but the result will definitely please you.
Canopy on four posts
In the process we will need the following:
- Wooden stands. Their diameter will be 5.8x5.8 centimeters. It is advisable to buy ready-made material that will have grooves in it to assemble the frame. A total of four racks will be used.
- Four frames. At the same time, 2 of them must fully correspond to the parameters of the bed (length, width). The remaining frames should only match in length. In this case, it is also better to buy blanks with factory-made holes for connections.
- Construction glue.
- Fasteners.
- Plugs – 4 pieces.
- Wooden chops.
- Finishing varnish.
- Textile. On average, it will take about ten meters (this amount must be distributed on both sides).
The process of creating such a canopy is based on making a frame for attaching the fabric. It can be made from any material, including plastic and metal. In our case, wood will be used.
Step 1. First, we need to connect the vertical and transverse elements using the tongue-and-groove principle. To make the frame reliable, we make additional fastenings with self-tapping screws. The structure should be level, which should be checked upon completion of assembly.
Method of connecting parts tongue and groove
Step 2. Now this frame should be varnished. In total, you need to apply it in 3-4 layers, drying each one. If the bed itself is dark in color, then the frame can be painted with stain, and only then with varnish. Potassium permanganate is also suitable for such purposes - mix a strong solution to get a dark cherry wood color.
We coat the frame with wood varnish
Step 3. Now you need to install this frame so that its corners rest against the bed.
Installing the frame
Step 4. Finally, you need to attach textiles to the resulting frame. Here you can show your creativity and make unusual drapery options.
This is what the finished structure will look like
Video - Making a canopy
An easy way to make a decorative canopy for a children's bed
This design can even be made from scrap materials. In the process we will need the following:
- Basket. You can take an old one that you no longer plan to use.
- Decor. Here you can take any artificial flowers, brooches of your choice, or toys.
- Brush. Any hair with stiff bristles will do.
- Dye. Since the canopy will be installed on a children's bed, it is necessary to use the safest possible paint that is not toxic.
- Glue. Any will do, but it's better to take a glue gun.
- Lightweight material.
Step-by-step instruction
Step 1. First of all, we need to remove all the unnecessary elements from our basket, including the bottom and handle. Just do this carefully so as not to damage the frame itself.
Removing unnecessary parts of the basket
Step 2. Now you need to go over this base with a brush to remove all kinds of dirt.
Remove possible dirt with a brush
Step 3. Next you need to start decorating our frame. For this we use artificial flowers. They're bright for now, but we'll paint them later. It is necessary to thread the flowers into the holes and fix them with a glue gun.
We decorate the basket with flowers, which can be arranged in any order at your discretion
Step 4. Now we have to paint the frame. It is better to do this outdoors using spray paint.
It is necessary to paint all the details of our frame, after which it should be left until completely dry
Step 5. We will attach decorative ruffles along the top edge.
Light ruffles were used to match the entire design
Step 6. Next you will need to attach Velcro to the inside of the basket. Here you also need to use a glue gun. The last step is to attach a fine mesh to these Velcro strips.
The result should be a canopy like this, which will look best over a child’s bed
Video - Canopy for a children's bed
How to decorate a canopy?
If we are talking about a bedroom for adults, then it is recommended to use satin ribbons of various widths or thick laces with tassels as decor. To create a bright accent, you can use several colored cuts to form one canopy.
Sometimes the canopy is decorated with a voluminous bow, which is best installed in the middle of the hanging structure. It should be made only from durable fabric that holds its shape well. You can attach it using pins.
You can make a voluminous bow as a decorative element.
If this is a crib, then some mothers prefer to make unusual mobiles that are installed in the center of the canopy. They are usually made of felt in the form of cartoon characters and various animals. The canopy can be decorated with all kinds of garlands and balls. Such decorations look especially original on transparent fabric.
With your own hands you can make not only a canopy and mobiles, but also the crib itself. Detailed step-by-step instructions for making a wooden crib can be found in our article.
Decor options
The canopy is decorated in different ways. For very small children, jewelry should not have sharp, hard, easily detachable parts that could injure or choke on a baby.
What is suitable for decoration:
- lush bows;
- lace;
- frill;
- ribbons;
- applications;
- photo prints;
- colored cords;
- textile stars, hearts, animal figures.
Decor such as wooden, plastic beads, textured stripes must be firmly fixed so that the baby cannot tear it off.
Useful tips for beginners
Beginners may find the following recommendations useful in the process:
- When choosing textiles for a canopy, it is necessary to take into account that it should be approximately 20 centimeters more than indicated in the calculations. All these centimeters will be spent on hems and fastenings.
- It will be much easier to install the frame on the ceiling using hangers. The system is installed on the wall using dowels.
- It is not necessary to make a full-fledged canopy; you can install a simplified version. To do this, first, rods are fixed above the sleeping place, and ordinary curtains are already hung on them.
- Instead of solid loops, you can use fabric ribbons to match the material of the canopy.
It is better to purchase material with a reserve
Style, color
Canopies will best fit into such interior styles as:
- classic;
- modern;
- baroque;
- boho;
- Oriental;
- Mediterranean;
- romantic;
- antique;
- Gothic.
The color of the fabric should promote restful sleep and be combined with the color of bed linen and other room textiles. Most often, the canopy is made in pastel colors and powdery tones. Sometimes the color of the canopy is matched to the walls or made contrasting or accentuated.
The gender of the child also matters - for girls, canopies are most often sewn from pink, peach, and purple fabric, for boys - from blue, gray, and dark blue. The universal idea is snow-white; it gives the room incredible elegance. Two-color options are also acceptable:
- red with white and pink;
- brilliant green;
- sky blue with violet;
- apricot with periwinkle;
- bronze with light green;
- aquamarine with beige;
- mulberry with floral white;
- pistachio with slate blue;
- pink-amaranth with spruce;
- turquoise with lilac;
- pale chestnut with chamois;
- zinnwaldite with sunny yellow;
- fuchsia with dusty blue.
If desired, the canopy can be made rainbow, multi-colored, then the rest of the interior design should match.
