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How to make a pelmet using foamcore?

I have some foam core that I would like to attach to the ceiling as a sort of cheap pelmet for heat efficiency and to cover up the curtain brackets, like here https://www.lukearthurwells.com/blog/easy-curtain-pelmet-diy

Could I glue the foam core to the ceiling-if so what glue should I use?

would I need to get some kind of wood trim to reinforce?

I have the ikea betydlig curtain brackets attached to the ceiling and there is room to screw a piece of wood or foamcore to the bracket that I could then glue to the pelmet.

Would this be possible to do with foam core? If not what material should I use?

thank you!

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MitchellMc

You’re on the right track thinking about a DIY pelmet @alterily, and it’s great you’re looking to keep it lightweight and budget-friendly. Foam core could technically work for a very temporary or purely cosmetic pelmet, and hot glue would hold it together, but it isn’t ideal for attaching directly to a ceiling because it is too flexible and can sag or warp over time. You could screw through the foam core into the ceiling plasterboard if you’re careful, but even then it is still quite fragile.

A better approach is to use something a bit more robust, like 6mm MDF or thin pine for the main structure. You can glue and screw it together to form your pelmet, and then attach it to the ceiling with screws into the plasterboard. That gives you a much sturdier, long-lasting pelmet that will not sag, and you could still keep it fairly light. With MDF and a few pine trims, the whole project, including fixings, can come in under $100. You’ll end up with something that looks neat, is easy to paint, and you won't constantly worry about it falling down.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

alterily

Ok, thank you

Do you know how would I screw it into the ceiling. I have plasterboard with metal studs I believe (I’m in an appartment).

the options you gave me are a bit wider and longer than I would like, how would I cut it down? I don’t have a saw or any space to saw.

MitchellMc

Because the MDF and timber strips I suggested are quite thin @alterily and need to be cut to specific sizes, this is not something our in-store team would be able to do. For a neat and safe result, you’ll likely need to get a handy person or tradesperson to construct the pelmet for you. They can cut and assemble the pieces properly and ensure it is securely fitted to your ceiling. If you need help finding someone, you could check out the Bunnings Services Marketplace, which can connect you with a local professional to assist with this project.

Once the pelmet is cut and ready, it can be attached to plasterboard safely using a few short screws into the ceiling. If your ceiling has metal studs, it’s important to use the correct type of metal screws. Because the pelmet is lightweight, you don’t need to hit every stud, but ensure it is well-supported across the length. Any screw holes can be filled and painted over once installed. This approach keeps it secure without putting stress on the plasterboard.

Mitchell

alterily

Ok thanks for the info, I might make a quick temporary one with the foamcore I have to see if I like it and then if I do hire someone to do a permanent job.

I was thinking of either making a frame using plywood sticks and then glueing the foamcore to the frame or just gluing the plywood sticks to top and bottom of the foamcore (to reduce warping) then screw the plywood into the curtain brackets. Understand it probably won’t last very long but at least I can see if I like the look.

Would gorilla glue work? If not do you have another glue you’d recommend. Or any other advice. Thank you so much.

MitchellMc

Gorilla Glue would work @alterily, especially for a prototype. It holds very strongly once set.

Mitchell

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