How to Crochet Edging for a Valance

Valances can be left plain or edged with fringe or needlework.

A valance is a stylish element of your window treatments that you can make special by edging with beautiful crochet work. Though finding ways to attach yarn work, like knit and crochet, to fabric has sometimes vexed those who have tried, there are ways to do it. So don't be discouraged if you want to crochet edging for your valance.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn of choice
• Size "K" crochet hook
• Valance
• Hand sewing needle or sewing machine
• Matching thread
• Straight pins

Instructions

Crochet Edging

1. Chain enough stitches to equal the length of the valance hem. Count your stitches. The total number of stitches should be a multiple of four plus one additional stitch.

2. Chain one and turn the work. Skip first chain and single crochet in each chain to the end. Repeat for a total of three rows of single crochet.

3. Create the block edging. Chain four and turn the work. Skip three stitches, triple crochet in next stitch, chain three, and double crochet four so that they loop around the stem of the triple crochet. Repeat to the end of the row and fasten off to complete the edging.

Attach the Edging

1. Wash both the valance and edging so that any shrinkage happens before they are attached.

2. Fold both edging and valance in half and match the center points. Pin in place so your first chain row sits along the hem of the valance with just enough overlap so there is room to stitch, approximately 4 mm. Gently ease the rest of the edging along the valance hem being careful not to stretch the edging. Pin it in place.

3. Set the sewing machine to a 2.5 mm zigzag stitch. Carefully stitch the edging to the valance beginning at the center and sewing to one end. Start from the center again and sew to the other end being careful not to pull or stretch the edging while stitching.

Tips & Warnings

• You can opt to attach the edging by hand. Use a running stitch, being careful not to pull the stitches too tight, as the fabric and edging need some stretch room.

References

• "150 Crochet Trims"; Susan Smith; April 2007
• Lion Brand: Library of Knitting and Crochet Information (FAQ)
• The Purl Bee; Sewing Knitting Tutorial; Purl Soho