How to Make a Shirred Valance Curtain

Measure the area of the window for the shirred valance. Use a measuring tape, and measure the window’s width and the desired length. Start and end the width measurement where the curtain rod attaches to the wall. Note the window’s measurements on paper.

Add fullness to the shirred valance by doubling the width measurement. Add another 10 inches to the length measurement to allow for the hem, rod pocket seam and upper gather. For example, if your width measurement is 36 inches, doubling that figure gives you 72 inches. If your desired length measurement is 12 inches, adding 10 inches gives you 22 inches, with a final measurement of 72 inches wide and 22 inches long.

Lay the fabric for the shirred valance on a stable, flat surface. Measure and mark your desired measurements on the fabric using a measuring tape and chalk. Use sharp scissors, and cut out your shirred valance fabric panel.

Fold the top and side edges of the fabric toward the wrong side 1/2 inch. Fold the fabric edges over again an additional 1/2 inch. This keeps the outer edge from raveling. Pin the outer edges in place. Sew a 1/4-inch wide seam along the pinned edges, and remove the pins.

Fold the top portion of the valance toward the wrong side of the fabric 8 inches. Pin the section to hold it in place. Sew a seam 1/2 inch above the bottom edge of the folded fabric to secure it. Sew another seam 2-1/2 inches above the previous seam to create the pocket for the rod. This leaves a 5-inch top section that will stand upright and gather when placed on the rod.

Create the bottom hem by folding the bottom edge of the fabric 1 inch toward the inside. Fold the fabric over an additional inch, and pin in place. Sew a 3/4-inch wide seam along the bottom. Unpin the fabric, and trim off any long threads.

Iron the shirred valance before installing it on the rod and placing it in the window. Iron all seams flat, including the upper portion of the valance. Place the valance on the rod, and hang it in the widow. Even out the top gathers with your hands.