How to Make a Ruffled Valance
Nothing brightens up a room more than cheerful curtains hanging from the windows. Curtains can instantly make any room look fresh and clean. However, curtains purchased at a store can often be very expensive, considering that they only consist of a piece of cloth with finished edges. It is possible to make your own cheerful ruffled valance in just a couple of hours. The process is quite simple, and you do not have to spend the extra money to buy curtains from a store. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Iron
- Chalk
- Straight pins
Instructions
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1
Measure the length and height of the window that you want to cover. The fabric you purchase should be at least twice the length of the window and about 24 inches long, depending on the window. You can lengthen or shorten the curtains to your own preferences. However, the width of the cloth is essential. Add 5 inches to the length to allow for seams and the rod pocket.
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2
Lay the cloth flat on a hard surface. Use a ruler to mark straight lines with the chalk where cuts should be made. Cut the cloth along the lines, being careful to leave smooth edges.
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3
Fold the bottom and side edges of cloth over ¼ of an inch; then fold under again an additional ¼ inch to create a hem. This will cause the rough edge of the cloth to be hidden under the second fold. Pin the folds into place with straight pins. Iron the folds down to create sharper edges. Before sewing, ensure that the folds are made onto the side of the cloth that will become the back of the curtain.
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4
Sew the sides and bottom edge of the cloth. Remove the pins as the seam is sewed. Measure 4 inches from the remaining edge of the cloth. Fold the cloth at this point, and iron it into place to create a sharp crease. Take the bottom edge of the cloth and fold it over at ¼ inch, then again at ¼ inch just like you did for the other hems. Pin into place and iron down. You should now have a pocked pinned to the top of the curtain.
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5
Sew the remaining seam, making sure to leave at least 3 inches for the curtain rod. Remove the pins as you sew the seam into place. Hang the curtain onto the curtain rod. The extra cloth will create ruffles in the fabric, creating a ruffled valance.
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Tips & Warnings
Ironing the cloth before cutting will make it easier to cut and measure.
