This week’s Inspiration Friday is the first of my projects for my new craft room. Learn to make a custom window valance. I don’t know about you but, have you seen the cost of custom window treatments? They can be very expensive, and you can make them yourself for more than half the price! These fabulous handmade window valances can transform any room with an added touch of style to any room. I have been making my valances for years. It is a fun and easy way to add a change of color to any room! This project only takes a few supplies, and you can make them in no time!
The great thing about valances is that they don’t require a lot of fabric and are pretty easy to hang and simple to make!
I like to use a wide curtain rod for my valances. However, there are lots of other ways to hang a valance. You can use skinny rods, rings with clips, tension rods, or even velcro if you want to make it temporary. In this tutorial, I am going to show you how I used a 2.5-inch rod.
So let’s get started on learning how to makes custom window valances for your windows! Check out the video tutorial below or follow the step by step instructions below! You choose how you want to learn to make a valance!
Supplies
- Curtain Fabric
- Coordinating Thread
- Sewing Machine
- Rotary Cutter or Scissors
- Pressing Mat
- Clips
- Curtain Rod and Valance Hardware
*Disclaimer: Links above are affiliate links. By clicking on these links I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Some products may have been provided to me by vendors, however, all opinions and reviews are strictly my own.
Step #1 Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
The first step is to measure your window and cut out the curtain fabrics!
Before you cut your fabric, you will need to know your window’s dimensions and then determine the width of the valance you want. So let’s measure our window. I like to have my valances with a little ruffle going across the rod, so I take the width of my window and times it by 1 1/2 to determine the width of my fabric needed. The valance’s length is up to you and your preference, but a 22″ length is a good starting point and when we sew it we will be folding that length in half. So, we will end up with about a 10″length when you take the seam allowance into consideration.
TIP! I learned a great lesson. If you are not sure what length you want, add extra length. You can always cut some off, but you can’t add it back if you cut it too short!
So, now let’s get our fabric cut. Below is a quick diagram of what measurements to use and an easy equation to use. If you want your valances fuller than mine, you can change the equation!
Step #2 Sewing the Valance Together
Fold your valance fabric in half lengthwise with the right sides together and clip together.
Using coordinating thread and a 5/8″ seam allowance, sew along the top edge.
Press the seam open and flat.
Turn the valance right sides out press the valance.
Fold in each end about 1/2″ to 1″ and press.
Next, measure down 1″ and sew a seam along the width of the fabric.
Now depending on the width of your curtain hardware, measure down the width of the rod plus 1/4′ to 1/2”.
Then sew a straight stitch along the length of the valance. My curtain rod is 2 1/2″, so I measure down 2 3/4″ from my last seam. This seam will create a channel for your curtain rod.
Step #3 Adding the Window Valance to the Hardware
Our last step is to mount the curtain hardware, insert your curtain rod through your valance, and hang it up!
In about an hour, you can have a custom window treatment that will dress up any window.
I love being able to pick my fabric to make my window valance. If you want to add a new look to a room, then this Inspiration Friday DIY window treatment is for you!
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*Disclaimer: Links above are affiliate links. By clicking on these links I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Some products may have been provided to me by vendors, however, all opinions and reviews are strictly my own.
Social Media Links
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2 comments
Loved how easy, and all the neat little tricks.
Thanks!