Try an alternative to a conventional window treatment -- a shelf above a window. It's a great way to dress up a window and provide storage at the same time. Materials:
Two wooden brackets with keyholes
Wooden shelf
Saw
Sandpaper
Finishing materials of your choice
Drill or electric screwdriver
Screws
Level
Masking tape
Wall anchors, if necessary
- Determine the length of the shelf by measuring the distance between the outside edge of the window frame on one side to the outside edge on the other side. Add to that measurement the width of the shelf brackets and any desired shelf overhang to get the full length of the shelf.
- Cut the board to the desired length, and sand the edges smooth. Apply paint or the finish of your choice to both shelf and brackets.
- Put the bracket template up against the window frame so that it's level with the top of the frame, and tape it in place. The bracket template shows the placement of the wall screws that will hold the brackets in place.
- If there's not a stud framing the window, drill pilot holes, and install wall anchors for the screws.
- Drive the screws, but don't tighten them all the way down. Place the round part of the bracket keyhole over the screw heads (figure A), and pull down on the bracket so it locks in place (figure B).
- Put the shelf in place on top of the brackets, and attach it to the wall with screws for added stability (figure C).
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