How to Make Belted Valances

A valance adds a finishing topper to a window. You can use a valance on its own or in conjunction with drapery or blinds. Valances resemble swags but they have a more solid appearance and they are generally installed on a rod or board as opposed to simply being draped. A belted valance is more decorative than a panel-style valance. Belted valances have the soft curves of swags but with the benefit of the full top coverage of a typical valance.

Measuring tape
Fabric
Iron
Pins
Sewing machine and thread
2-inch-wide fabric ribbon
Hook-and-loop tape

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of the valance rod. Add 2 inches onto the measurement to determine the width of fabric necessary.
- 2
  Determine the desired length for the valance to hang down. Add 6 inches onto the length for the hems and rod pocket.
- 3
  Cut a piece of fabric to the width and length determined previously.
- 4
  Lay the fabric right side down. Fold over the edges on the sides and bottom a half-inch and press. Fold over a second time, catching the raw edges of the fabric inside the fold, and press. Stitch along the edge of the fold to hem all three sides of the valance.
- 5
  Fold the top 3½ inches of the valance over to create the rod pocket. Fold under ½ inch so the raw edge of the fabric is not showing along the bottom of the rod pocket. Stitch along this folded edge to create the pocket.
- 6
  Slide the rod into the rod pocket and hang the valance over the window. Determine the desired location for the belts. Attractive options include two belts placed evenly apart for smaller windows, or three belts spaced evenly apart for larger windows.
- 7
  Cut a length of coordinating 2-inch-wide fabric ribbon to the same length as the initial length measurement for the fabric. Cut a length for each belt needed.
- 8
  Stitch or glue hook-and-loop tape to either end of the ribbon so you can fasten it in a loop. Wrap the ribbon around the valance and rod and fasten it closed. Arrange the ribbon so the closure is hidden behind the rod.

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