A valance is a decorative fabric treatment that is typically mounted above a window to hide the hardware of blinds or shades. It adds a layer of elegance and completeness to the window treatment while providing a cohesive look with the rest of the room’s décor. Valances come in different styles such as pleated, ruffled, scalloped, or tailored, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal taste and the overall aesthetic of your home.
Advantages of Adding a Valance to Homemade Shades:
1. Enhanced Aesthetics:
By adding a valance to your homemade shades, you can instantly elevate the appearance of your windows. The valance acts as a decorative element that complements your shades and ties the entire design together. It adds depth and visual interest to the window treatment, transforming a simple shade into an eye-catching focal point in the room.
2. Finished Look:
One common issue with DIY shades is the exposed hardware, which can appear unfinished or unpolished. A valance can solve this problem by concealing the brackets and other mounting hardware. This gives your homemade shades a more professional and finished look, making them appear more like custom-made window treatments.
3. Customization:
When you make your own shades, you have the freedom to choose the fabric and design that best suits your taste and décor. Adding a valance allows you to further customize your window treatment. You can select a valance fabric that coordinates or contrasts with your shades, adding another layer of visual interest and personalization to your windows.
How to Add a Valance to Homemade Shades:
1. Measure and Cut:
Start by measuring the width and length of your window to determine the dimensions for your valance. You will need to cut a piece of fabric that is approximately 2-3 times the width of your window, depending on the desired fullness of the valance.
2. Hemming:
Hem the sides and the bottom of the fabric to achieve clean edges. This can be done using a sewing machine or by hand with fabric glue or iron-on hemming tape.
3. Mounting:
Attach a mounting board or valance rod above the window frame. Secure it using appropriate brackets or screws. Make sure the mounting board is level and securely fastened to the wall.
4. Attaching the Valance:
Depending on the style of your valance, you may need to pleat or gather the fabric before attaching it to the mounting board or rod. Use pins or fabric clips to hold the pleats or gathers in place. Once satisfied with the arrangement, sew or glue the fabric to the mounting board or rod.
5. Finishing Touches:
Inspect the valance to ensure it is hanging evenly and adjust as necessary. Add any desired embellishments such as decorative trim, tassels, or fringe to further enhance the valance’s appearance.
Adding a valance to your homemade shades can greatly enhance the overall look and feel of your windows. It brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to your window treatment, conceals any exposed hardware, and allows for further customization. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily incorporate a valance into your homemade shades and create a polished and stylish window treatment that reflects your personal taste and style.