Steps to make a decorative window top cornice using ribbons and flowers.

The lightweight cornice takes little time to make and can add height and definition to any window.

1. The cornice has four pieces: the main piece, two sides, and the top. To make the cornice frame, cut 1/2 inch thick Styrofoam sheets to the dimension of the window. To determine the width of the window, measure it to the outside edges of the moulding. Cornices are generally six inches deep, so cut the sides six inches wide and to the height of the main piece.

2. Glue the pieces together with a glue gun, and pin them in place to allow the glue to set.

3. When the glue is dry, remove the pins, and pin 3/4-inch thick quilt batting on the main panel and the sides.

4. Cut the fabric that will cover the cornice to the size of the cornice plus three to four inches all around.

5. Hem the fabric by ironing fusible tape onto the edge. Remove the paper from the tape, turn the fabric under, and iron it again for a finished edge.

6. Place the fabric on the cornice, and fold it neatly around the front and sides of the frame, pinning or gluing it in place.

7. To add a ribbon trim, make a template out of cardboard to help position the ribbon. Line the ribbon up with the template, and hot-glue it in place.

8. Use an L-bracket or Velcro to attach the cornice to the wall.