How to Make a Canopy Bed

You might decide to make a canopy bed to add romance to your bedroom. While this is a simple project that does not require a lot of building skills, some sewing abilities would be helpful. Generally the steps needed to make a canopy net and suspend it over your bed are easy to follow and are not labor intensive.

Step 1: Cut the Sheer Fabric

Take the sheer fabric and cut three panels in the size from where the canopy is suspended to the bed. Use the tape measure to determine the length of the panels. Draw a circle on the remaining sheer fabric approximately 1 inch beyond the hoop edge using a fabric marker. Cut out the circle and set aside.

Step 2: Place Circle Insider Hoop

Zigzag the raw edges of the sheer circle you cut out to keep it from unraveling. Take and apply the double-sided tape around the inner ring of the hoop. Carefully take the circle and position it over the hoop and pull it taut, affixing it to the adhesive in the circle. Repeat this process as you rotate the circle and attach it to the hoop, being sure to pull taut. Cut 4 lengths of the cord and place a knot at each end. Mark the outer hoop in quarters and pin one cord at each quarter mark, allowing the knot to fall below the lower edge of the hoop.

Step 3: Sew the Panels

Fold and press the lower edges of each panel about 1/2 inch and then sew. Use the iron to press the hemmed edges and remove any creases. Join panels 1 and 2 by creating a 1/4-inch seam, then repeat by joining panel 3 to panel 1. Join by sewing the right side of the panels together.

Step 4: Place the Panels into the Hoop

Place the hemmed edges of the panel around the inner hoop in alignment with the safety pins and chords. The cords should extend freely and unimpeded by the panels. Press the hemmed sections of the joined panels onto the double-sided tape, then place the outer hoop in place and secure by tightening the screw.

Step 5: Hang the Canopy

Thread the hoop cords through a large wooden bead and make knots in the cord ends. Join the cords and knot the end. Place a pot hook (one used for a large house plant) into the ceiling above bed and screw into beam. You can also use a drywall ceiling anchor that is self locking. Suspend the canopy from the hook and let the drape panels fall around bed. Make adjustments to the chords as needed to either raise or lower the canopy.