Roman Shade Masterclass

    A couple of weeks ago on this day I was heading to Tryon NC to take a class at Workroom Tech.  Here is a description of the workroom right from their webpage:  Custom Workroom Technical Center or "Workroom Tech" is a training facility dedicated to the custom workroom industry with weekly hands-on classes for window treatments and soft furnishings. Classes are for all skill levels, whether you would like to learn to sew home decor and start a workroom business, or are an established professional seeking to hone your skills.

     Workroom Tech is owned and operated by Susan Woodcock and Rodger Walker, owners of Home Dec Gal and producers of Custom Workroom Conference. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tryon, NC, Workroom Tech is at the center of a charming town, within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops and galleries.

      The class I took was Roman Shades Masterclass with Rosemarie Garner.  The first day we made a small partial shade that we left open so we could examine the workings when we needed to look at it later.

Making some double banding

     Then we started on making the banding for our shade.  As a class we chose to do double banding.  The strips were cut and pressed and then we learned how to make mitered corners.  It was a bit tricky with the two layers.

Squaring up the banding

     Then we started to apply the banding to the face fabric, making sure everything was squared up and in the proper place.

Ready fro pressing

     We then pressed the bands into place and it was time to start making the blackout lining, learning a technique to prevent pinholes of light.

     The next day we finished putting the shade together and applied it to a headrail with a cool and easy motorized system.  Once we were all done, Susan and Rosemarie mounted them and took a video of the shades in motion.  Check here for the video.

Class relaxed Romans

     Then it was time to make our stationary relaxed Roman shades.  After we finished those we spent a little time hearing about some other ways to make shades.

     I had a great time with the five other women and learned so much.  My husband and I stayed at a bed and breakfast called GreenLife Inn just about a mile and a half from Workroom Tech.  What a warm and welcoming place.  I can't wait to take another class in beautiful Tryon NC.

Stationary relaxed Roman shade