Make a Top-Down/Bottom-Up Roman Shade

This very popular shade is easy to make. Based on the Classic Roman shade, an extra set of cords is added so that the top drops down for a view out your window. It can also be raised from the bottom. Learn about the simple changes required for your shade to operate flawlessly in both directions.

Preparing to Make a TDBU Shade

Once you understand how a Top-Down/Bottom-Up shade operates and have read and followed the directions for measuring and sketching a pattern for your shade, you are ready to make your Top-Down/Bottom-Up Roman shade.

Sew Hem and Side Seams

After cutting your front fabric and lining, you will hem (separately) both and then join them together by sewing the side seams. You will end up with a tube of fabric that has hems at the bottom and raw edges at the top.

Make TDBU Headrail

You make your TDBU headrail before closing the top of your shade. This way you can measure the headrail "length" and make the shade the correct size.

Close the Top of Top-Down Shade

The top of your Top-Down Shade contains a pocket for a Stiffener Board. You are ready to make the top pocket and close the top of your shade.

Attach Internal Battens

Attach internal battens in your shade using glue. The battens are not noticeable and assure that your shade folds perfectly.

Sew Lift Rings on Top-Down Shade

You have two sets of lift rings for your Top-Down shade. The first set contains most of the rings that are used to guide the shade as it folds. The second set is the Top-Down rings which are sewn behind the Stiffener Pocket.