Short windows need a shallow pelmet, or one lying mainly above the window-frame, Where these windows are wide it is often a good plan to run a wooden fascia (facing band), concealing runners, across the whole width of the window-wall, painted like it, so that the curtains can be pulled right off the window if desired. This can also be done with a narrow metal band, but wood, needing no wiping over, is better and cheaper. For a curved window, thin bending ply can be used, as it is very strong. Most people box in the top of their wooden pelmet if it does not reach the ceiling, but in some rooms, if the boxing is large, it is possible to conceal lights behind it which will illuminate both ceiling and curtains.
Wooden pelmets may be made decorative, or at least mot stark, in many ways. It is easy to scallop or otherwise shape the edge, bearing in mind, however, that there should be light and not woodwork behind even the deepest indentations. Plain wood may be covered in any material that can be stuck on; for example, washable wallpaper, foil-paper, woodveneer paper, buckram, Japanese grass cloth, flexible mirror, leather, or varnished drawing paper bearing a painted design. Hard building board is a good substitute for wood, and often has an admirable texture of its own, and there is also plywood covered with stainless metal.
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