How To Size A Window Valance

To make a window valance you will need the following supplies.

How to size a window valance.

The right way to measure for a valance depends on the valance type and where you plan to mount it. Window valances are treatments that cover the very top of the window. When you are discussing gathered valances it usually means you are talking about the pocket type of the valance. Though valances don t provide privacy they soften the look of bare windows and those covered with shades or blinds.

Some customers think they need a special width to fit their windows this is simply not true. What about custom size valances. Typically a valance is 1 5 the length of the implied window length but this is a personal choice. But generally speaking a valance should end up hanging about half an inch to 2 inches beyond each side of the window in its final form.

Curtain fabric this fabric also referred to as fabric a will be the main fabric seen on the front outside of the valance. A valance is often used to hide the rods brackets or other hardware so you will want one large enough to cover these and allow plenty of space between the. They ve been popular since the renaissance and saw a high point in their use in victorian england. A 60 inch tall window then would call for a 16 inch deep valance while a 48 inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep.

Many times you will need multiple valances for a single width window. The valance size will always need to be at least somewhat wider than the window. As a practical aesthetic piece valances are used to hide the bars and other hardware that attaches to the wall to support drapes and blinds. Combining a valance with curtains or draperies frames the window hides utilitarian hardware and gives the treatment a finished look.

For a valance that is gathered and balloon valances figure double the width of your window. Valance length is determined by the size of the window and the style of the valance. Obviously when going the custom route there is no such thing as a standard valance size. Use the measurement guides below to determine how much fabric you need.

So a 40 inch window should be covered by 41 to 44 inches of the valance above it. Again this rule can be adjusted according to the instincts of the designer. For a flat tailored look the valance should be wide enough to cover the width of the rod plus the side returns of the rod.