How to Hem the Top of a Valance

A valance is a good choice for a window that you don’t necessarily want to cover but need a little something to soften the look of the frame or to place at the top of a long curtain to make it look more formal. A valance can be pleated, shirred or flat, but the way you hem it can affect the way it hangs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine how long you want the valance to be. Measure the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the point where you want the valance to end. This is usually about 1/6 of the length of the window.
   
   

2. Allow enough fabric for the hem when you’re cutting out your valance. Measure for the length and then add 4 inches for the top and 3 inches for the bottom.
   
   

3. Hem the sides of the valance by turning under 1/2 inch and pressing. Turn under another 1/2 inch, press and sew the side seam to give a neat, enclosed finish for the sides.
   
   

4. Make the rod pocket at the top of the valance. Fold down 4 inches, turn under 1/4 inch on the raw edge and sew in place. Measure down 3 inches and use a ruler to mark a line all the way across the top of the valance. Sew along this line to form the pocket for the curtain rod.
   
   

5. Turn up 3 inches on the bottom of the valance and press in place. Turn under 1/4 on the raw edge, press again and sew the hem in place.