How to Sew a Box Pleat Valance

If you are tired of your plain undressed windows, why not add a simple topper such as a window valance? Window valances are a great way to add color and style to any room. There are a plethora of styles from flat valances to swag valances to balloon valances and box pleat valances.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Sewing pins
• No-sew seam tape

Instructions

Measure and Cut the Fabric

1. Measure the window to determine how much fabric will be needed for the valance. Add 8 extra inches to the width for the pleats and side hem. The length should include a 1-inch seam allowance at the bottom for hemming and an additional 1 5/8-inch allowance at the top for the pocket rod.

2. Lay out your fabric and cut it according to the measurements. Cut an additional 2-inch wide strip of fabric that will be used for the rod pocket on the back. Turn under the bottom and sides of the fabric to form a 1-inch hem at the bottom and pin it into place.

3. Turn the valance face down and use the sewing machine to stitch a 5/8-inch seam along the sides, top and bottom to form a hem, removing the sewing pins as you work.

4. Fold the fabric over to form 1-inch pleats approximately 4 inches apart and pin them into place. Most pleated valances have five to seven pleats, depending on the width of your window. Hand stitch each pleat down and press the pleat with a warm iron.

5. Use no-sew tape to iron a 2-inch strip of fabric to the top back of the valance to form the rod pocket for the top of the valance. Insert your pocket rod through the pocket and hang the valance.

Resources

• Sewing pleated drapes and valances