How to Hang a Valance Over a Shade

Rod-Pocket Valance

• 1

  Use a stepladder and measuring tape to measure the depth of the rolled or folded shade to determine how far it extends from the wall. The side depth of the curtain rod should be at least 1/2 to 1 inch deeper than the depth of the shade so the area behind the valance can accommodate the shade.

• 2

  Level a string line across the window opening above the mounted shade where you want the top of the valance. Mark lightly with pencil on each side of the window frame at the ends of the string line to indicate where to place the curtain rod brackets.

• 3

  Install the curtain rod brackets using the nails provided with the bracket hardware. Hang the curtain rod and place the level along the rod to check for level. Raise or lower the rod bracket placement, if necessary, to level the rod.

• 4

  Thread the curtain rod through the rod casing on the valance. Attach the rod to the brackets and distribute the valance evenly across the curtain rod.

Scarf Valance

• 5

  Install a curtain rod above the shade, making sure it is level across the window span. If your valance fabric is lightweight, you may like the way a clear acrylic curtain rod becomes invisible under sheer fabrics.

• 6

  Stand on a stepladder to drape the scarf valance over the curtain rod, arranging it in a pleasing fashion. Experiment with light twists of the fabric or different draping or scrunching effects.

• 7

  Use a scarf valance for hard-to-reach windows. A scarf valance only rests on the rod, making it easy to remove and replace when laundering becomes necessary.