How To Size A Window Valance

The valance size will always need to be at least somewhat wider than the window.

How to size a window valance.

Window valances are treatments that cover the very top of the window. As a practical aesthetic piece valances are used to hide the bars and other hardware that attaches to the wall to support drapes and blinds. Combining a valance with curtains or draperies frames the window hides utilitarian hardware and gives the treatment a finished look. But generally speaking a valance should end up hanging about half an inch to 2 inches beyond each side of the window in its final form.

So a 40 inch window should be covered by 41 to 44 inches of the valance above it. Obviously when going the custom route there is no such thing as a standard valance size. Many times you will need multiple valances for a single width window. Though valances don t provide privacy they soften the look of bare windows and those covered with shades or blinds.

For a valance that is gathered and balloon valances figure double the width of your window. The right way to measure for a valance depends on the valance type and where you plan to mount it. Again this rule can be adjusted according to the instincts of the designer. What about custom size valances.

Depending on where the hardware is located the valance may also need to be wider than the window frame. Typically a valance is 1 5 the length of the implied window length but this is a personal choice. Use the measurement guides below to determine how much fabric you need. Valance length is determined by the size of the window and the style of the valance.

When you are discussing gathered valances it usually means you are talking about the pocket type of the valance. Curtain fabric this fabric also referred to as fabric a will be the main fabric seen on the front outside of the valance. A 60 inch tall window then would call for a 16 inch deep valance while a 48 inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep. Some customers think they need a special width to fit their windows this is simply not true.

You can achieve your desired look with any size valance offered. They ve been popular since the renaissance and saw a high point in their use in victorian england. For a flat tailored look the valance should be wide enough to cover the width of the rod plus the side returns of the rod.