Want a decorator look but don’t have the cash? Make your own! Valances can add interest to your home and accent openings you don’t need to cover with a full drape or curtain. There are many styles to choose from but with a few simple sewing skills you can make an easy, attractive valance for any room in your home. You’ll need a few sewing supplies that include:
- Measuring tape
- Fabric
- Thread to match
- Sewing pins
- Scissors
- Iron and ironing surface
Begin by taking some measurements:
- Measure window-opening width (inside width). Suggested width for a valance is 1 1/2 – 2 ½ times the width.
- Add two inches (or desired width) each side for rod projection plus 1 inch each side for hem.
- Length should be approximately 1/4 times the length of the window, but you can adjust to your taste. Also, be sure to adjust for rod height (i.e. measure from top of rod to top of window and add that length to formula).
My window measures 36 inches wide by 36 inches long. The measurements will be:
Width:
36 inches + 4 inches (rod projection) + 2 inches (hem) = 42 inches
Length:
9 inches (1/4 of 36 inch length) + 3 inches (to top of rod from top of window) + 5 ½ inches (rod pocket, header and seam allowance) + 1 ½ inches (hem) = 19 inches
Pro Tip: Since most fabric measures approximately 45 inches wide, I will use that width in its entirety rather than cut the width at 42 inches. This will give me a slight more bit width and will add to the overall fullness.
There are two ways to achieve the width you need. I have used both with equal success. The choice is up to you. One involves making two of the same valance and shirring on the rod to get the full effect. The other involves sewing the two pieces together and sewing the panel as one piece.
- Cut two pieces of fabric 19 inches x 45 (approximate width of fabric). If you want to do one continuous piece here, sew a center seam by matching two sides of fabric right side together and sewing a 5/8 inch seam in the middle. Press open.
- On sides of fabric fold and press ½ inch. Repeat for other side. Fold again ½ inch, press and pin. Stitch. Repeat for other side.
- At top of fabric fold and press ½ inch of fabric to inside. Fold again 5 inches to inside and press. Pin carefully and sew close to fold with a straight stitch. Sew again ½ inch above first stitching. Sew 2 inches down from top across width of fabric with straight stitch. You have now formed a 2 ½ inch rod pocket.
- On bottom fold and press ½ inch to inside. Fold again at one inch, press and fold. Pin and stitch. Press well.
You are on your way to creating many exciting window valances for your home. The ideas are endless. Have fun saving money by doing it yourself!
