All about valances

What is a Window Valance? A valance is a form of window treatment that covers the uppermost part of the window that can be hung alone or with shades, blinds, shutters, or curtains. Valances are a popular choice to add decorative appeal to a room and to also hide drapery hardware. Because valances come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and fabrics, they can be easily customized to match your current décor. The price range for this form of window covering depends upon the above mentioned varieties but comes within the reasonable limits of most budgets.

Types of Window Valances When shopping for a window valance, you will find that there are a wide variety of options. Some of the most common valance designs include:

• Balloon Valances: Just as the name implies, the fabric of this type of valance 'balloons' out, providing a full, puffy sort of appearance. Balloon valances are usually made of lightweight cotton material and come in many different colors and prints.
• Swag Valances: A swag is an elaborate window treatment which drapes across as one piece of material that can be hung on brackets and draped over the top of a window, with tail's hanging down on each side. You can use almost any type of fabric for these valances.
• Scarf Valances: A scarf valance much like a swag consists of one piece of fabric which is draped across the top of the window with its ends falling down the sides in the form of tails. The scarf is generally regarded as one of the easier valances to put up and is usually made of sheer or lightweight fabrics.
• Ascot Valances: Designed to be used with curtains or drapes, ascot shaped valances add a touch of elegance and class. These valances are often made of fancy materials, like silk and velvet, and may also be adorned with tassels, fringe, and other forms of decoration.

Hanging a Window Valance Hanging a window valance will depend upon the type of valance that you choose, but there are a few rules of thumb that you can follow to make sure you get the look you're going for:

• Valances should not cover more than the top third of the window.
• If the valance is being hung on a rod, you should make sure you have enough material to cover the required area including any additional length needed to wrap the material if needed.
• When attempting to lengthen a window or make it appear larger, you will want to avoid covering a large amount of glass.
• To minimize the appearance of a window, use a longer style of valance that will provide more glass coverage.