Sewing Valances
Sewing Tips, Valance Styles, and More
Valances are very versatile window treatments. These frame the window. They can be combined with a variety of other window coverings, including all sorts of curtains and shades. Easy to sew, valances are good projects for beginners.
Valance Styles
Valances come in two basic styles. Shaped valances have a tailored appearance. Gathered valances look very full, and tend to look more casual.
Coordinate the style with the room’s decor and the other window treatments. The valance needs to reflect the room’s use.
Using Valances
Valances can stand alone or be used in combination with side panels. They’re often combined with café curtains.
For very small windows, especially for short ones, a shaped valance is all the space needs provided the valance is long enough.
When privacy isn’t an issue, a valance is sufficient for tall windows. For this approach, make it about half the length of the window.
Choosing a Fabric
Choose a valance fabric that blends well with the other window treatments and the room’s furnishings. Mixing and matching fabrics is fine so long as the combination works.
Valances will be more attractive if either the valance fabric or the lining is opaque in order to prevent sunlight from passing through.
Measuring for Valances
To look right a valance must be long enough. For an average window, the minimum length would be around 1½ feet. Overall, it should be about one-fourth of the length of the curtains or the window.
When used alone, a valance can extend all the way to the bottom of the window frame. Long valances are very suitable for formal rooms. This provides a luxurious look.
When measuring the length, add an allowance for hems on the bottom and rod pockets on the top.
A shaped valance should fit flush over the top of the window frame. In order to fit, the width must be correct. So, measure carefully. Add a hem or seam allowance for each side. Some shaped valances have pleats held in place with buttons. Allow sufficient fabric for each individual pleat.
Gathered valances should be full. Otherwise, they look skimpy. Add the same amount as you would for a curtain. These need to be double the width of the window when heavy weight fabrics are used and triple the width for lightweight materials.
Depending on the width, the valance can be either one or two piece.
Sewing Tips for Valances
Preshrink the fabric before cutting the valance. These are sewn just like curtains. They have rod pockets on the top. If the valance isn’t lined, sew hems on the sides and bottom. For the best effect, line the shaped valance so it will hang better.
Fringe, tassels, and other trim can be added to the top or bottom of the valance.
The bottom edge of the valance can assume various shapes. In addition to being straight, it can have curves, scallops, or points.
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