Making a window valance with straight edges is a simple task. You can take your curtains to a new level if you add a scalloped edge to the bottom hem. It doesn’t take much longer than a straight hem, yet it makes your window furnishings look much more elaborate. The scallops can be any size you want. Though it's possible to make a scalloped valance from a single layer of fabric, a lined curtain has more body and crisper scallops.
Hang the curtain rod on its bracket. Measure the length of the rod plus the two side returns that connect the bracket to the rod. If you want gathers in the scalloped window valance, add up to half of the length to that amount to allow for the gathers and the seams. For a smooth valance, add only 1 inch to the length for seams.
Measure how long you want the valance to be. Measure the diameter of your curtain rod. Add 3 inches to that amount for the top header and bottom seam for a 1-inch or smaller diameter curtain rod. Add slightly more to accommodate a wider rod.
Purchase fabric. Double the amount of the length and width for the valance and its liner, which can be the same fabric or contrasting material.
Prewash and dry the fabric following the manufacturer’s laundry instructions. This sets the color and helps prevent shrinking in the finished product.
Piece kraft paper or newspaper together with tape to the length and width of the valance to use as a pattern. Plan your scalloped edges so that you have an odd number of them to give the curtain a balanced appearance. Use round objects, such as canned goods, as your guide as you trace a scalloped pattern onto the paper.
Lay one piece of the fabric right side up on a flat surface. Place the second piece on top of the first with the right side facing down. Arrange the fabric so the edges are even.
Lay the pattern on top of the fabric. Pin it with straight pins to hold it steady while you cut out the scalloped edge with a pair of sharp scissors. Remove the paper but leave the fabric pieces together.
Thread the sewing machine with thread that matches the fabric. Sew a half-inch seam along both of the short ends of the fabric. Sew a half-inch seam along the scalloped edge as well. Sew a second half-inch seam on top of the first seam along the scalloped edge for reinforcement.
Trim the scalloped seam to a quarter-inch to help the scalloped edge lie flat. As you sewed this seam, the tops of each scallop formed a "V" where the scallops connect. Make a cut into each "V" but do not cut through the double row of stitching.
Turn the valance right side out. Work the scallops out with your fingers or a blunt object. Make additional cuts, as necessary, in the seam to enable the scallops to lie flat. Press the curtain with a steam iron on an ironing board.
Turn a quarter-inch of the top edge of the valance onto the backside of the valance. Press this hem with the iron. Turn under an additional 2 inches for a 1-inch or smaller rod. Turn in more proportionately for a larger rod. Press this hem.
Stitch along the folded edge of the top hem, using the sewing machine, to create the bottom edge of the rod pocket. Backstitch at the beginning and end of this row of stitching. Create the second row of stitching for the header by stitching a half-inch from the fold. Backstitch on both ends of this row as well.
Things You Will Need
- Tape measure
- Kraft paper or newspaper
- Circular shapes
- Straight pins
- Sewing machine
- Steam iron
- Ironing board
- You can adjust the size of the header by adding or subtracting from the header fold. If you wish, omit the top row of stitching.