Valances Enhance the Look of Any Room
The most creative part of any window covering is the valance. From the very simplistic to the very ornate, the use of this type of window treatment can truly reflect the character and personality of the user. Valances are short drapes, metal strips or decorative boards hung across windows to hide the top of the drapery.
Curtain valances are usually made from material that matches the drapes and may be trimmed with fringe or a secondary fabric. They may also be used alone without other drapery or in conjunction with blinds, shades and shutters. Window valances are available in a variety of colors, sizes, designs and textures just like regular drapery and can be heavy or light, soft or stiff, casual or formal.
Contemporary valances come in a variety of styles:
- Balloon: This curtain gets its name from its ballooned or puffed up appearance. Tissue may be placed between the fabric pieces to accentuate the effect.
- Window scarf or swag: This type of valance does not have a rod pocket and can be displayed by draping it over the end of the curtain rod or by using decorative sconces. A waterfall valance consists of a combination of fixed swags.
- Tie-up: The body of a tie-up valance hangs inside adjustable fabric straps. The hanging length of the straps can be adjusted to cover up the desired proportion of window area.
- Ruffled: Kitchen valances are commonly ruffled, although this style can be used in other rooms as well. They can be displayed alone or with ruffled or swag curtains or privacy tiers.
- Tailored: Simply put, this curtain has no ruffles.
- Tapestry: This valance has a tapestry-like design or print and comes in a slightly heavier, thicker fabric. It is typically used alone without other drapery.
By using draping waterfall valances, you can create a beautiful window treatment. Get styling tips in this TouchOfClass.com video:
Bordering across the top and even down the sides of blinds, a valance is a really great way to finish off a window that does not necessarily need drapes. Kitchen cafe curtains are commonly topped off with a valance. With the blinds drawn, a valance creates a more finished and decorative look to the window as well as to the entire room.
The flexibility of valances allows you to change the look and feel of any window and room by coordinating the valance with the holidays or seasons. Without changing all of the drapery and hardware, you can create an entirely new look and feel for any celebration or party. You are limited only by your imagination and the type of fabrics you choose to use.
Valances can be made by hand if you are comfortable with sewing or purchased online from a variety of retailers. If you have custom valances in mind, you may want to check out Dante Hill, FabricWorkRoom.com or Smith+Noble. If you are contemplating a floral valance pattern, Waverly valances come in a wide variety of floral prints and are very popular.
If you are thinking of a more elegant look, you may prefer a cornice, an ornamental horizontal frame or molding that conceals the drapery rod. Cornices may be upholstered or made of wood such as oak, cherry or walnut, adding instant interior architecture to your room.
