Depending on your style and the look you’re going for in the room, there are many alternatives to window curtains that can be used. Blinds are a classic option that provide a look similar to curtains but offer far more control over the amount of light entering the room.
If you’re looking for something more unique, you might want to consider installing shutters. These come in a variety of styles to give any room a distinctive look and will especially add to a more traditional atmosphere.
For a more contemporary look, you might consider shades. They come in a variety of styles and colors and are great for blocking out light while also allowing you to adjust the level of privacy in the room.
Other options include drapes and panels that come in many different fabrics and styles and can be hung alone or paired with valances or other window treatments. Finally, you can also forgo any window coverings and instead use interior or exterior window films.
These films can be decorative and can provide a layer of privacy and sun protection, making them an excellent alternative to curtains.
How do you make a homemade valance?
Making a homemade valance is a great way to save money and customize your window treatments. There are several different methods of constructing a valance, but the following outline will provide you with a basic guide:
Step 1: Choose your fabric. Depending on the type of valance you are making, choose a fabric that fits with your current home décor and have enough fabric to cover the width of the window plus 2-3 inches on each side for seams.
Step 2: Measure the fabric and create a pattern for the valance. Measure the width of the window plus a few extra inches for the side hems, and then measure the desired height of the valance. To create a pattern, draw a rectangle as wide as the window plus side hems, and as tall as the desired height of the valance.
Add ½ inch to each side of the rectangle and cut out the pattern.
Step 3: Fold and iron the fabric. Place the fabric print side down and fold the fabric in half with the pattern still inside. Iron the edges of the fabric in order to prevent fraying after it is cut.
To make the valance more stable and less likely to slip, use fabric glue to cement the two sides of the folded fabric together.
Step 4: Pin the pattern over the fabric and start cutting. Slightly overlap the pattern onto the folded fabric and pin down the edges. Using sharp fabric scissors, cut about a ¼ inch away from the outer edges of the pattern to ensure that the edges are straight and even.
Step 5: Sew the side seams. Sew both side seams of the fabric together for the valance. Depending on the type of valance you are making, this can vary from a simple straight stitch to a cuffing or ruffle stitch.
If making a curtain or drape valance, be sure to follow a specific pattern when folding the fabric, such as pleats or folds, in order to give the valance a more polished look.
Step 6: Add lining or backing. Lining your valance will give it a sleeker finish and make it more durable. Adhere the lining to the back of the valance with fabric glue and then sew around the edges.
Step 7: Attach the valance to the rod. Measure the rod and fabric in order to determine how much of the rod to expose from beneath the valance. Cut a rod pocket on the back side of the valance, and then slide the rod into the pocket and attach it to the wall.
Can you make your own valance?
Yes, you can definitely make your own valance. Valances are a great way to add personality and style to any room in your home. To make your own valance, you will need some basic supplies like fabric, bias tape, a sewing machine, and basic sewing supplies.
You may also need some batting to provide a softer look and a curved rod to give your valance a smooth shape.
First, measure your window and prepare the fabric. Cut the fabric 2 ½ – 3 times the width of your window. Also, measure additional fabric for the back of the valance which will be used for box pleating.
You can use a yardstick and pencil to mark triangles onto the fabric that are 5 ½ – 7 inches wide and 3 ½ inches deep. Cut along the line of your triangles and then sew along the lines. Create box pleats by folding the triangles into an inverted V shape and pinning them along the line you made.
Once the pleating is finished, you can sandwich the valance together. Pin the pleats in the back and pin the top section with batting and the top of the back. Sew the layers together and finish off with bias tape.
Attach the valance to your rod and you’re all finished. Now you have your own custom valance to make your space look amazing.
How do you make a valance out of a tablecloth?
Making a valance out of a tablecloth is a creative and cost-effective way to add a hint of decor to any room. The first step is to measure the windows that the valance will be going over. You will need to know the exact width and length of the windows so you can pick out the right size tablecloth.
The first step can be done best with a measuring tape.
Once you have the measurements, it’s time to head to your local store (or online) and pick out the tablecloth of your choice. Make sure it’s the correct size to fit well over the window or you can always purchase a slightly larger tablecloth and hem it down to fit the size of your window.
Next, you want to measure the height that the valance should be. This step can be a bit tricky and will depend on a few things such as how long your curtains are and how much window you’d like to cover.
Once you have the correct height, use that same measuring tape to mark the measurements on the tablecloth.
It’s finally time to cut the valance. Make sure to use a pair of good fabric scissors as this makes for a more precise cut. Once the valance is cut to size, you can start to add any accents you’d like.
You can either sew or glue on things like tassels, ribbon, or other trimmings.
The last step is to attach the valance to the window. You have a few choices here. You can simply hang it over wood rods or you can sew on fabric tops to slip over the curtain rod. Whichever method you choose, make sure that the valance is secure on the window so it doesn’t slide or shift.
And voila! You have just made a valance out of a tablecloth. This is a great way to add a pop of color or design to the windows of any room.
How much fabric do I need for a valance?
The amount of fabric you need for a valance will depend on the size of your window and the size of the valance you will be making. For an average window, you will need between 2-3 yards of fabric, depending on the fullness of the valance you want.
A fuller valance will require more fabric, while a flat valance will need less.
To get an exact measurement, measure the length of the top of the window you will be covering and add 10-12 inches to that. This will give you the total length of the fabric you will need. Once you have the total length, you will then need to measure the width of the window.
The width of the fabric should be a minimum of twice the window width. Since fabric typically comes in widths of 54-58 inches, you may need to add a few inches to the total width to get the correct width for the fabric that you need.
Different styles of valances may require different amounts of fabric, so it is important to understand the specific style you are trying to make in order to purchase the correct amount of fabric.
How long are valances usually?
Valances can vary in length depending on the type of window and the look you are trying to achieve. For example, if you have a wide window that is two or three feet deep, you may want to choose a valance that extends from the top of the window to the bottom, or one that extends approximately four inches beyond the edges of the window on each side.
On the other hand, if you have a shallow window that is only one foot deep, a longer canopy valance that hangs a few inches below the frame may be more appropriate. Valances also come in standard lengths, like 40-48 inches and 56-63 inches, so you can find a length that is suitable for your specific window.
How long and wide should a valance be?
The size of a valance depends on several factors, including the size of the window, the type of fabric used and the style of the valance. Generally, valances should be at least 8 inches wider than the window on each side, unless the window is very narrow.
The length can vary. Many valances are mounted just above the window frame and are 6 to 12 inches long. For a scalloped or pleated valance, the length must be 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window. If the valance is hung higher above the window, it can be longer and wider, up to about 18 inches to each side of the window, or even wider for very large windows.
The bottom of the valance should end just above the top of the window trim or the top of the window blinds, depending on the desired look.
What size should a valance be for a 36 inch window?
When selecting a window valance for a 36 inch window, it is important to consider both the size and style of the window valance that is best suited for that particular window size. Generally speaking, a valance should be twice the width of the window in order to be properly proportioned and create a look that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
For a 36 inch window, this would mean selecting a valance that is about 72 inches wide. Additionally, keep in mind that the valance should have a drop that is 8-10 inches longer than the window, in order to ensure full coverage when hung.
That would mean selecting a valance with a drop of approximately 46-48 inches. Of course, these measurements are just a rule of thumb and the size of the valance may also depend on the style and shape of the individual window in question.
It may be necessary to select a valance that is either slightly larger or smaller in order to accommodate the shape of the window and ensure that the valance looks and functions as desired.
How wide should a window cornice be?
The width of your window cornice will depend on the size and style of your windows and your personal preference. Generally speaking, a cornice should be around 12 to 16 inches wide, with the wider end of that range being more suitable for larger windows and more ornate designs.
The size of the cornice should be proportional to the size of the window, so if you have larger windows, you may want to opt for a wider cornice that can encompass more of the window. Additionally, if you have a more intricate cornice design, you may want to opt for the larger end of the 12 to 16 inch range to give your design some room to properly show off its features.
When deciding what size cornice to purchase, you should also look at the existing window dimensions to see if the cornice size you choose will fit or if you need to have a custom size made. You also have to take into consideration the necessary measurements for clearance from the window treatments such as drapes, curtains, and shades.
Once you have found the perfect size and style for your windows, you may also want to consider the mounting options for your cornice, such as hanging it from ceiling mounts or mounting it directly to the wall.
It is important to keep all of these factors in mind when deciding on the correct size cornice for your windows.
How do you hang a valance over blinds?
Hanging a valance over blinds is a great way to add a decorative touch to any window. The first step is to measure the window and decide what type of valance you would like. Consider the size of the window, the look you are trying to create, and the pattern, texture, and color of the valance.
Make sure to buy enough fabric to cover the window, with extra in case of mistakes.
Next, you will need to install a mounting board. This can be bought from most home improvement stores and will provide a sturdy structure for the valance. You can fit the board to the exact size of the window and insert it inside the window frame or screw it into the wall above the window.
At this point, you should have your valance and mounting board. Lay the fabric over the mount, center it, and pin it in place. Now you can begin to attach it to the board. You may need to pleat, gather, or gather and pleat your fabric, depending on the style you are going for.
When the fabric is securely attached to the board, attach the board to the window frame.
Your final step is to install the blinds. Depending on the type of valance you have chosen, you may need to mount the blinds underneath the fabric, through the fabric, or above the fabric. Make sure the blinds are firmly in place and adjust them so they hang evenly around the window.
Finally, enjoy your updated window!.
