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.
Methods for attaching a canopy over a crib
For heavy and voluminous canopies, the central mounting method is best suited. This way the fabric will completely hide the crib so that nothing will disturb the baby while resting. This is a good option for newborns who spend most of their time sleeping.
The canopy around the perimeter looks especially impressive, because this is the method of fastening that was used in palace interiors. The fabric is completely distributed around the crib, and on top you can decorate it with a bow or a large accessory. But this design is the most difficult to install: as many as four holders are needed.
The canopy at the head looks graceful and elegant, even above the cribs of older children. Essentially, it is only above the head, and the rest of the area is open. In a dream, the child is protected from light and external factors, but parents can always control what happens to him.
Photo: severdv.ru
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
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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. |
How to attach a lambrequin to a curtain
Scheme for attaching the lambrequin to the cornice using Velcro
Typically, lambrequins are hung above the curtains. To strengthen them, several options are used, including:
- installation on a cornice, which is most suitable for soft options that are easy to install;
- use of Velcro for rigid drapery;
- combined, combining the first two methods; Its peculiarity is that soft elements are mounted on a rigid base.
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.
Interesting design options: photos of beautiful canopy beds
Before hanging a canopy in the bedroom, you need to carefully consider the design and make sure that the canopy will look harmonious with the interior of the room, as well as support its style and color scheme. In addition, the purpose of the room must be taken into account (whether it is a child’s room or a bedroom for adults), since each age category has its own needs. Don’t forget about the owner’s taste preferences, because a bedroom is a place where a person relaxes, so it should best suit his ideas about comfort, beauty and convenience.
Bedroom for adults: bed canopies in different styles
Decorators offer a lot of interesting design solutions for the adult bedroom. A canopy decorated in the Italian style looks very attractive in the interior. Such models are usually created on the basis of light and lightweight fabric. It is desirable that the material of the canopy falls neatly directly onto the bed. In this case, the sleeping place should also be decorated in light colors.
The following colors will help support the interior design with a canopy in the Italian style:
- golden;
- beige;
- silver;
- Ivory.
In an adult bedroom, a canopy will go well with oriental style. For such rooms, a model made of thick and dark fabric, decorated with openwork patterns and ornaments, is suitable.
It is advisable to select the fabric for the canopy taking into account the design of such design elements as a blanket, pillows, rug
For canopies in oriental style, the following shades are used:
- burgundy;
- Navy blue;
- green;
- black.
Helpful advice! If you want to create a bedroom interior with a canopy in an oriental style, it is better to give preference to materials with golden and silver patterns. Tassels on a veil will be an excellent addition to an exotic setting.
To create an interior in a modern style, you can install a round four-poster bed in the bedroom. A light cape will become a beautiful frame for an unusual sleeping place, and will also hide it from prying eyes. This design option is optimal if you want to achieve privacy in the bedroom.
Many owners of city apartments and country houses prefer bedrooms in the Provence style. A white bed topped with a canopy and translucent light curtains will look very elegant in such an interior.
Decorating a nursery: photos of four-poster beds
When arranging a nursery, it is important not only to know how to assemble a canopy and install it on a crib, but also to be able to choose the right product design and material. In a baby’s room, such a design will perform two functions at once: decorative and protective.
When choosing a canopy for a children's room, you need to pay attention to the color of the product and its decorative component
It is strictly forbidden to install a canopy with curtains made of synthetic fabric in a nursery. The material of the canopy in this case is very important. If the fabrics do not allow air to pass through, this may cause allergies in the child. Therefore, it is advisable to give preference to materials of natural origin, for example, silk, organza, tulle, etc.
Canopies made from tulle and organza are considered the most practical and comfortable. These materials are easy to wash and do not require ironing, so they save a lot of time. After washing, they dry very quickly, which is a definite advantage.
In addition, when choosing a canopy for a nursery, you must pay attention to the decorative component and color of the product. Newborn babies need peace of mind, so it is better for them to choose models made in muted and light colors. Such an environment will have a beneficial effect on the baby’s psyche.
It is better to avoid fabrics with bright spots. Such materials have a stimulating effect on the child and can cause sleep disturbances. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid contrasting combinations and bright patterns, giving preference to plain models.
Important! IKEA canopies are considered one of the highest quality and most practical. Despite this, the manufacturer is recalling some models because a potential danger to children has been discovered. The company asks customers who purchased Minnen, Clamming, Minnen Brodur, Legendarisk, Himmel, Barnslig Ball, Fabler, Thissla canopies to return them to stores (with a refund).
Suitable colors for a canopy in a girl’s room:
- yellow;
- silver;
- lilac;
- golden;
- pink (dull).
You can also find canopies for boys on sale, made in the form of houses, castles, etc. Acceptable colors for boys are light shades of blue, green, cyan and yellow.
In a children's room, a canopy will serve both a decorative and protective function.
Canopy bed designs: double, round and other designs
A double bed is the most common design option for a sleeping area. Canopies for such structures vary in design and some parameters. They are not only used as decoration, but also provide heat retention in the sleeping area. It is advisable to install double beds in spacious rooms. In this case, the design can also be used for zoning space.
A canopy installed above a round bed looks very interesting in the interior. With this approach to design, the space in the room is visually reduced, and the ceilings seem lower than they actually are, so this option is not suitable for every bedroom.
A round bed allows you to create a romantic atmosphere. This design looks most successful when surrounded by interior items made in the Provence style. To bring airiness and lightness to the interior of the room, it is advisable to choose a bed and canopy with a laconic design. The fewer details the better.
When it comes to canopy beds for teenage girls, the choice is not limited to just one option. The most reliable systems are those that completely cover the sleeping area. Such designs have a special holder and are fixed on the side of the bed. Canopies, which only partially cover the sleeping area, provide protection in the pillow area. In this case, the holder should be located at the head of the head.
In addition, in a teenage girl’s room you can install a bed in which the canopy is fixed at four points. This design option is called “royal”.
Helpful advice! Before putting on the canopy after washing, the fastening must be wiped with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt that may accumulate there.
A canopy mounted above a round bed looks very interesting and original.
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
Types of canopies: photos of products and mounting options
Bed canopies vary in style, design and type of construction. The type of construction refers to the method by which the product is attached. The canopy is selected taking into account the size of the room, as well as the characteristics of the bed, which can be a double, or single, or even for a child.
It is generally accepted that a canopy will look beautiful only in spacious bedrooms with high ceilings
The choice of mounting method must be approached seriously and thoroughly, since this will subsequently affect the design and style of the room. It is generally accepted that beds decorated with canopies are only suitable for spacious bedrooms with high ceilings. However, this statement may not always be true. It all depends on how well the canopy is chosen, on the method of its installation, as well as the material of manufacture and color.
Canopy ceiling mounts: bracket and frame
The mount in the form of a bracket is installed on the ceiling, and racks are fixed to the sides of the bed. Due to this, the canopy fabric hangs down and diverges to the sides. It envelops the sleeping area around the entire perimeter and fits beautifully on the racks. The bracket also allows you to mount a small dome, which creates the effect of flowing fabric. This design option fits perfectly into a romantic bedroom setting.
Ceiling mounts for canopies include a frame-shaped design. It is a canopy that exceeds the dimensions of the bed and at the same time follows its shape. These mounts are universal. They are suitable for both large and small rooms.
The canopy is attached to the ceiling using structures in the form of a frame or bracket
The mount in the form of a frame is installed on the ceiling in cases where the height of the room is small. In spacious rooms, another installation option is allowed: the frame is attached to support posts, which are placed at the corners of the bed. This design option looks quite original. In this case, the sleeping area is completely isolated from the rest of the space.
Note! If the frame is attached directly to the posts, the supports are subject to additional stress. It is advisable to select models in which the mount is made of light wooden beams.
Unusual mounts for a canopy on a bed: a luxurious crown and classic columns
Columns can be used as a canopy holder. However, this design option is only suitable for bedrooms with high ceilings (at least 3 m). This is necessary so that the columns do not rest against the base and do not look massive against the general background. At the same time, the supports themselves should not be too high. Such restrictions exist so that you can easily throw a fabric curtain over the columns and lay it out beautifully on the sides.
In small rooms, crown-shaped canopy rods look ideal
Unusual and luxurious mounting options include designs called “crowns.” In this case, the canopy is installed at the head of the bed. The structure itself is a small canopy, which is mounted into the wall and decorated with light translucent fabric. Crown canopy curtain rods are ideal for small rooms as they do not take up space in the room and do not require additional space to install.
Moreover, fastenings called “crowns” can be used in bedroom interiors in classic and modern styles. In this case, the curtain only partially covers the bed. The material flows from the headboard and spreads out to the edges. This design is used primarily as decoration, and not as a functional addition.
Materials for a canopy over a bed: photos of canopies and fastenings
The fabric for the bedside veil is selected taking into account the style in which the bedroom interior is decorated. A universal option is considered to be lightweight materials that fill the room with light and slightly hide the sleeping area from prying eyes. Translucent fabrics look equally good on wrought-iron canopy beds and classic wooden models. Such materials are airy; they are used in cases where you want to completely cover the sleeping area.
The fabric for the canopy is selected taking into account the style; lightweight materials are considered universal
Thicker options are usually used in combination with canopies, which act as decor that slightly covers the head of the bed. These designs include crown-shaped mounts.
Related article:
Bed for a girl: variety of designs for a young lady Main types of designs. Features of choosing beds for girls of preschool and school age.
Cornices for such canopies are made from the following materials:
- wood;
- metal;
- plastic.
Thick fabric on the canopy in the bedroom must be combined with the upholstery on the furniture, for example, poufs, armchairs or sofas.
Helpful advice! When choosing fabric for a canopy, it is advisable to take into account the design of the blanket, pillows, rug and other design elements. Thanks to this, you can achieve complete harmony in the interior.
Many people try to make their own canopy. If the fabric for the curtain is thick, then before making a canopy over the bed, you need to choose a suitable material for the back. The interior of the structure should create a calm atmosphere so that a person does not experience stress and is not distracted while falling asleep. It is advisable that the reverse side is not too dark. It is better to give preference to plain materials.
Each type of fabric has certain properties:
- silk is used to create weightless designs;
- organza looks great in a romantic setting;
- velvet is used as a basis for interiors in a classic style;
- The tapestry is suitable for those cases when you need to darken the sleeping area.
Silk canopy is used to create a weightless design
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.
Support material
Canopy supports are made from various materials - metal, wood, plastic. The choice depends on the style of the interior and the capabilities of the owner.
- Metal – presentable elements intended for a luxurious bed. Pairs perfectly with a wrought-iron headboard and other metal parts. Often such structures are complemented with ornate forged decorations.
- Wooden - classic supports that blend harmoniously with a wooden bed. Fancy carved elements will decorate a classic bedroom. Rough hewn beams will fit perfectly into country and loft styles. Thin, strict slats will emphasize the simplicity of minimalism.
- Plastic – lightweight, practical models are very easy to use. A huge selection of shapes and colors allows you to use them in any style. They can successfully imitate metal and wood.
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
Modular solutions
Almost any classic or modern bed can be complemented with a separately mounted canopy. This can be either a custom-made solution or a removable canopy.
In the photo: the Savio Firmino rectangular hanging canopy will fit any bed from the factory.
In the photo: the luxurious Silik Baldacchino canopy fits all King Size beds from the factory.
A canopy in the shape of a half ring, which is mounted on the wall above the bed, will be appropriate even for a modest-sized bedroom.
Pictured: Savio Firmino 1911 canopy bed.
In the photo: canopy with Silik Asea lambrequin. Available in any finish and compatible with all Silik beds.
Buy or make it yourself?
Of course, any product can be purchased in a store. It should be borne in mind that ready-made options are not always suitable if you have a non-standard bed. In addition, you will have to spend more money.
It is also worth noting that a canopy is not a very popular piece of furniture, so it will be difficult to find a store that offers a wide variety of similar products.
Making your own structure is a great opportunity to save money. Here you will have the opportunity to purchase fabric and any accessories to your taste. However, this option is not suitable for people who do not have free time, because you will have to tinker with some types of canopies.
Only by making a canopy with your own hands can you get a unique product
Making a canopy with your own hands is not difficult, especially since there are quite simple options that even a beginner can handle. Otherwise, this is a great opportunity to decorate your bedroom, make it cozy and unusual.