There's something charming about windows that have odd shapes, or that are unusually large or small. They give a house a special kind of unique personality. However, finding a way to cover the windows when you need to can be challenging. No matter how attractive a window may be, you'll want to be able to block out the sun and heat at times for the sake of your energy bills, and of course, you also want to maintain your privacy. Take a look at some tips that can help you when you're trying to figure out how to cover unusual windows.

Fabric Panels

Fabric panels that run the length of the wall are a great choice for oversized windows, no matter what their shape. If you want them to open and close, you can have a concealed track installed so that you can slide the panels back and forth. On the other hand, if you want the windows permanently shaded or partly open, you can save money with a simple DIY trick – instead of installing a track for the panels, attach Velcro squares to the wall and the panels. This will hold the panels in place, but allow for easy removal when you want to wash them.

Choose a fabric color that matches your walls for a chic monochrome look, or opt for a bold accent color if you want to draw attention to your window.

Shutters

Decorative shutters can work well on an oddly shaped window, and can even be combined with other types of window treatments for an elegant look. For example, if you have a large window with a sunburst shape on top, you can try a sunburst-shaped shutter over the rounded top of the window, and install regular curtains below.

A shutter can also be a good choice for a small window. Not all shutters need to be louvered – for a small window, a hinged panel with a decorative door is a nice, artistic touch.

Glass Decorations

There's always the option of decorating the glass itself. Window tint can be cut to fit any size window. The tint can block the view into the house from the outside, while still allowing you to see outside. In addition to plain dark tint, you can buy home window tint that will give your windows the look of stained, etched, or frosted glass – a great way to block out the light and emphasize your unusual windows at the same time.

Unlike shutters, curtains, or panels, however, window tint will have to stay in place once you put it on the window. Before you choose decorative tint, make sure that you don't need the light from that window and that you're willing to live with the design for a while.

Unusual windows should be a positive feature, not a negative one. Don't be afraid to get creative when it comes to finding ways to cover them. Visit companies like F & R Interiors for more inspiration.