Make a Valance Without Sewing a Stitch

A valance is a short, decorative curtain piece hung along the top of a window's curtain rod to add a touch of style and flair. Even without sewing, you can design and create a customized window valance for any one of the windows in your home with these easy steps.

Measure the width of your window. Write this measurement down for future reference. Then decide on the length of your valance. Ideally, it should be more than 15 inches long (starting at the curtain rod), but it can be made to be longer if you desire, especially if your window is very wide. A wide window will look best with a slightly longer valance.

If you desire a gathered look, multiply the window width by 2.5. If you are using a particularly sheer fabric, multiply the window width by 3 to 4. For a valance that hangs straight down from the curtain rod without any gathering, simply measure the fabric to precisely match the width of the drapes to be hung from the window. Add 2 inches of width to each valance panel you measure. This will provide adequate room for hems. Cut along the lines you have determined with your measurements. Then measure the length you have determined onto the fabric and double this measurement, as your valance will be made by folding the fabric in half toward the end of the process. Add 2 inches here as well and cut. Turn the entire piece of fabric over so all hems face down. Pick up the bottom of the fabric and fold it up to the top so that all edges meet.

After creating your hems, allow them to completely cool and dry. Turn the fabric right-side out so that all hems are left facing inside. Measure the width of your curtain rod (usually about 1.5 to 2.5 inches) and create a pocket hem for the rod to slide through. You can use the iron-on tape or glue gun for this as well. Slide in the rod and hang.

No design project is ever successful without careful planning and measurement