QA

Question: How To Make Window Valances

How much fabric do I need to make a window valance?

The obvious answer is that it depends, but you should expect to need somewhere between 1-1/2 to 5 yards of face fabric for a standard 36- to 40-inch window. For double-wide windows (about 70 to 80 inches wide), about 2-1/2 to 8 yards of face fabric is a realistic estimate.

How much wider than the window should a valance be?

Most valances should only be 1-1/2 to 5 inches wider than the window if the valance hangs by itself or over a Roman shade. It should be 10 to 30 inches wider than the window if it’s hung over a pair of custom drapes. If the valance is gathered, its total, flat width should be 2 to 3.5 times the width of the window.

How far down should a window valance hang?

Another rule of thumb used by decorators is that the window valance depth should be 1/4 of the overall window height, plus 1 inch. A 60-inch tall window, then, would call for a 16-inch deep valance, while a 48-inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep.

How do you measure material for valances?

To make a plain valance, first measure the width of your window. Multiply this width by 1-1/2. The length of the valance should be 1/4 the window height plus one inch. Using these measurements, cut a rectangle from your fabric and lining.

What size are valances?

If you’re shopping for ready-made valances, the most common standard size you’ll likely come across is a 50-inch wide valance. If you’re hiring a custom workroom, you can specify any size.

What is the average length of a valance?

It depends on the style of the valance, as well as how it’s installed and how high the ceiling is. Outside-mounted valances usually have an average drop length of 17 to 21 inches if hung on walls with 8-foot ceilings, and that length gets proportionately longer as the ceiling gets taller.

How do you make a napkin valance?

Create a playful banner-style valance with a series of cloth napkins, each in a different color or pattern than the previous. Fold them on the diagonal for a pointed-tip valance, or fold an inch or so of the side or top of each over to fit a bit of clothesline or a cafe curtain rod through.

Can you put a valance over blinds?

These can be installed above any window treatments, blinds, shades or drapes. A valance is a length of decorative drapery over the top of the window. They often help to hide hardware like drapery rods, hooks, etc. There are several valance styles to choose from for your windows.

What size should a valance be for a 36 inch window?

To determine the width of a valance for a 36-inch window, the Window Treatment Expert website suggests adding 2 to 4 inches on each side, adding less for narrower windows and more for wider windows. For a 36-inch window, this measurement would provide you with a valance that has a width of 40 to 44 inches.

Do you need a double curtain rod for a valance?

We recommend using two single curtain rods of 1″ – 2″ in diameter: the top one is for the valance with swags and tails, and the lower one for the two curtain panels. This way, you have more flexibility in adjusting height, width and projection (distance from the wall).

How many valances should I buy?

Basic Rules of Thumb for Valance Coverage While some decorators suggest allowing your valance to cover no more than the top one-third of your window’s glass, others base valance length on the length of the window’s curtains, making valances 1/6 to 1/5 as long as the curtains.

How many waterfall valances do I need?

When you’re measuring a window for multiple waterfall valances, each valance layer should measure double or triple the width of the window dimensions to create a full, luxurious, stacked appearance. For example, if your window is 54 inches wide, select valance widths ranging from 108 inches to 162 inches.

Where should valance rods be placed?

Put the rod onto the brackets and hang the valance. Place the rod on the brackets for the valance. The brackets should be sturdy enough to hold the valance. The valance should hang down straight, just outside the curtain rod.

How deep should a curtain valance be?

Another rule of thumb used by decorators is that the window valance depth should be 1/4 of the overall window height, plus 1 inch. A 60-inch tall window, then, would call for a 16-inch deep valance, while a 48-inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep.

How wide should a valance be for a 40 inch window?

Our example window is 40 inches wide, including the window frame. That means that the valance should cover a total width of about 42 to 44 inches once gathered.

How do I choose a window valance?

Remember the adage of Goldilocks: “not too small, not too big, just right!” But don’t worry, it’s not intimidating. Just know the height of your valance should be 1/6th the overall height of your whole window treatment, whether it be drapery, cellular shades, or a bare window.

How wide should a valance be for a 24 inch window?

Opt for valances of 24- to 36-inches deep for opulent styles, such as board-mounted swags. The overall width of a valance should be between 3 to 4 inches wider than the window or treatment it covers. If used alone, frame the window opening within a few inches.

How do you hang a valance without a rod?

How to Hang Your Curtains Without Using a Rod 1 – Hooks. There are a number of hooks you can use to hang your curtains. 2 – Drawer Pulls. 3 – Rope. 4 – Tree Branches. 5 – Sports Equipment. 6 – Nails. 7 – Copper Pipes. 8 – Upholstery Tacks.

What is a Lambrequin window treatment?

A lambrequin is a valance whose sides come further down the window; it is often — but not always — a stand-alone feature with no curtains or blinds beneath it.

How do you sew napkins into curtains?

Slide a curtain rod through the tops of the napkins. Hang the rod at the desired height at the top of the window. Make any necessary adjustments to the napkins. If your window is too small to accommodate three napkins, use two small or one large napkin.