How Do I Sew a Valance?

A valance is a short panel that tops your drapes and adds a decorative element. Valances are most often made out of an accent fabric--one that is different from your drapes. You can sew a valance yourself in no time. Unlike drapes, which are hung in pairs, valances are usually made from a single panel. You need only to cut it to size, hem, and either make a casing for the curtain rod or sew on pinch pleat tape.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Pinch pleat tape (if desired)

1. Measure the width of your window. Multiply your window's measurement by 1.5, then add 10 inches for hems and fullness.

2. Cut the fabric. Cut the valence the width you arrived at in Step 1 by 36 inches.

3. Hem the sides. Turn the raw edges under 1 inch on both sides of the valance and press. Fold over another inch, press and stitch the side hems.

4. Hem the bottom of the valance. Turn the bottom raw edge under 4 inches. Press. Fold over another 4 inches, making a double 4-inch hem. Press. Stitch the bottom hem.

5. Make the casing for the curtain rod. Turn the upper edge under 2 1/2 inches. Press. Turn under again another 2 1/2 inches. Press. Sew a seam 1/4 inch from the folded edge and another seam 2 inches below that. This will be the casing in which you insert the curtain rod. If you want pinch pleats in your valance, instead of making a casing, sew a strip of pinch pleat tape to the top of the valance after turning over the raw edges (the same distance you would if you were making a casing). Insert pinch pleat curtain hooks in the pre-sewn pockets in the pinch pleat tape.

Tips & Warnings

• Valances are not only for hanging over full-length drapes. Try putting a valance at the top of a window hung with mini blinds.