How to Make Valance Box

Valance boxes add a decorative element to your decor and hide curtain rods, related hardware and the tops of curtains or draperies. Valance boxes can be painted, varnished or upholstered to match or contrast with the draperies. Valances can be straight or scalloped. In this article the steps will be listed to make a straight, painted valance box trimmed with wallpaper border. The valance in this article will be 40 inches wide and 8 inches deep.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clear pine lumber (1 inch by 6 inch)
• screws
• drill driver
• primer
• paint
• wallpaper border (3 to 4 inches wide)
• shelf brackets (plain)

How to Make Valance Box

1. Cut 2 pieces of the pine lumber 40 inches long. Cut 2 pieces 8 inches long. Attach the 2 long pieces together along the long edges with screws, matching front edges. When finished, this will resemble half of a box.

2. Attach the 8-inch pieces to the ends of the long pieces. These form the projections that will extend from the wall. The wall will form the back side of the box.

3. Sand all surfaces of the assembled valance box, including the interior. Prime all surfaces of the box inside and outside. Allow to dry. Apply at least two coats of the paint chosen for the box. Allow to dry between coats and before applying wallpaper.

4. Apply wallpaper border according to directions on the package. Wipe all excess paste from the painted surface. The border can be placed where desired: along the bottom, across the center, or along the top. Decorative decals can be substituted for the border. Allow to dry.

5. Install shelf brackets outside and 1 1/2 inches above the window frame. Set valance box on brackets. Use screws through the shelf brackets into the interior of the valance box. This keeps the box properly aligned and keeps it from falling. Small items, plates or other items can be set on top of the valance box.

Tips & Warnings

• The painted valance is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and kids' rooms. It is easily cleaned. When you decide to repaint, the wallpaper border can removed, the valance can be painted in the new color and new wallpaper border or decals can be added.
• Use proper ventilation when applying primer and paint.