Decorative tails and trumpets can add that finishing touch in-between swags and on pelmets, valances and bed drapes. Add smaller versions to tie backs for a coordinated look. Small tails and trumpets give a more subtle look but if you are looking for a more dramatic effect then they can be made larger. Whatever their size they must be in proportion. For an idea of how big to make your tails or trumpets make a paper pattern and pin it in position adjusting the size until you reach the desired effect. Braid or tassels can be added to the lower edges to accentuate the shape. Trumpets are sometimes known as bells while tails are known as cascades or jabots.
These free illustrated instructions will enable you to make your own tails and trumpets to enhance all your soft furnishings.

Making tasseled tails:

Cut out 2 pieces of fabric to required size as in the diagram, using your paper pattern as a guide. Add 0.5" (12 mm) seam allowance to all edges.

With right sides together and raw edges matching stitch sides and lower edges 0.5" (12 mm) in.

Trim seam allowance, turn right side out and press.

Turn in 0.5" (12 mm) at top edge and slipstitch.

Sew a tassel to the point at bottom.

Repeat for contrasting tail, if required, making it 2/3 the length of the first tail.

Making a paper pattern for trumpets:

Fold the sides of a large piece of paper to the centre.

On the left hand fold measure the finished length C.

From the top of C measure half the finished top width (A) and mark.

From the bottom of C measure half the finished bottom width (B) and mark.

Join these 2 marks.

From the bottom of C measure half A up the fold and mark.

From this mark draw an arc to the bottom outer corner.

On the right hand fold measure the finished length C.

Follow steps 3-5.

From the bottom of C measure half A down the fold and mark.

From this mark draw an arc to the bottom outer corner.

Cut out both shapes through both thicknesses and unfold.

Making trumpets:

Cut out fabric to required size using the paper pattern. Cut 1 front piece and 1 back piece. Add ½" (13 mm) seam allowance to all edges.

Cut out contrast lining the same size as the fabric. 1 front piece and 1 back piece.

With right sides together, pin back and front pieces together at side edges. Stitch sides together 0.5" (12 mm) in from raw edge to form a cone. Press seams open.
Repeat for lining.

Place fabric and lining cones, right sides together, pin and stitch around the lower edge 0.5" (12 mm) in.

Turn right side out and press being careful not to squash the shape.

Turn 0.5" (12 mm) at top edge and slipstitch.