Tips to Help You Create Your Own Window Valance Treatment

Window coverings have long been a decorative element to add to homes. When you are thinking about the different types of widow coverings, you may want to consider a top treatment. A top treatment that you can use on a window alone or over the top of blinds, sheers or drapes makes your windows look lovely. Different top treatments are the decorative part of your window and can hide hardware that you don't wish to show.

Making your own top treatments, will not only save you money, but will also allow you a lot of imaginative leeway. You can create your very own special look.

When you are deciding on a fabric that you want to use, first consider the weight of the fabric and then the pattern. Since you will be making your own, you will have many different choices.

For shapes of your valance, the easiest kind to make is a straight across one. You will cut the fabric to fit along your window. This is an excellent style for a lightweight fabric, but of course the fabric pattern can be whatever you choose. However, if you wish to make a more fancy type of valance, consider angling the fabric. A medium weight fabric is good for this style. You can also make rounded valances, but you need to make sure that each side of the valance is the same. (Usually you will have two sides to a valance, per a big window. If your window is small you may just have one piece.)

Start with a simple shape for your first valance and as you get more experienced you can try scalloped edges, Austrian and other unique looks.

Sew a hem on the valance. Use a sewing machine or sew by hand. A hem is usually two inches, but you can make it smaller if you would like to. Sew a pocket for the curtain rod opening at the top of the valance. Make it 1/2 inch wider than the rod. You should leave about an inch above the pocket. To create the pocket, sew straight across the top of your fabric, then measure the rod and the 1/2 inch and then sew that clear across the fabric also. (You will not need to do this when you are using a board.

Attach the desired curtain rod to the wall using a hammer and nails. If you are using a board you will need to fasten the board with 2 inch side pieces to the wall.

Remove curtain rod and slide the valance on the rod. Replace the rod. If you are using a board you can use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the board.

Arrange the valance fabric to your desired taste. Make it look the way you want it to.

Attach any decorative items to the valance, such as tassels or beads. You can sew these to the top corners of the valance for a more decorative look. Adding ruffles and trims can make your valance stand out. Create a unique look.