How to Measure Yardage for Balloon Valances

Measure the Rod

• Hang the chosen rod and measure its length. Measure the circumference of the rod and record both measurements. Typically, a balloon valance mounts on a 1-inch cafe rod.

Calculate the Widths Required

• Multiply the length of the rod by three. The valance will have triple fullness, a standard of balloon valances. If the fabric is thicker than regular drapery fabric, or less fullness is required, multiply the length of the rod by two. Divide this resulting figure by the width of the fabric. For example, if the rod is 50 inches long, and the fullness is three times, then three times 50 equals 150, divided by 54 equals 2.7. Round this figure up to the next number. In this example, round to three; you will require three widths of the fabric. Most drapery fabric is 54 inches wide, but to be sure, measure the width of the fabric you are using.

Determine the Valance Length

• Decide the length of the valance. This is an arbitrary measurement; typically it is about one-fifth of the length of the window and encompasses the distance from the top of the rod to the bottom of the longest balloon.

The Lengths of Each Width

• Calculate the cut length of each width of fabric by adding 24 inches to the length of the valance. This is the allowance for the balloon shapes and bottom hem. To this number, add the diameter of the rod, plus 2 inches for top hem and rod pocket ease, and 4 inches for a 2-inch top ruffle. The top ruffle calculation includes the ruffle front and back. For example, if the finished valance should be 16 inches and the rod circumference is 2 inches, the cut length will be 48 inches (16 plus 24 plus 2 plus 2 plus 4).

The Yardage Calculation

• Calculate the yardage required by multiplying the number of cut lengths required by the number of widths required, and dividing the result by 36 to equal the number of yards required. In this example: three widths, each 48 inches long, equals 144, divided by 36 equals 4 yards required.

Pattern Repeat

• If the fabric has a pattern, round the required cut lengths of fabric up to accommodate full patterns. For example, if the pattern is 25 inches long, and the cut length should be 48 inches, calculate and cut the lengths 50 inches. This will facilitate matching the pattern when joining the widths. Remove the excess length before completing the valance.