Introduction
How To Hang Curtains With Valance: Our comprehensive guide on how to hang curtains with valance, a wonderful way to create a sophisticated and complete window treatment ensemble. Combining curtains and a valance adds depth, style, and elegance to your windows, enhancing the overall look and feel of any room.
In this step-by-step tutorial, we will walk you through the process of hanging curtains with a valance, ensuring that your window treatment achieves a polished and cohesive appearance. From selecting the right hardware and measuring your windows correctly to arranging the layers for a seamless look, we cover all the essential aspects to make the installation process easy and successful.
Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a beginner, our guide provides valuable tips and insights to help you achieve a beautifully balanced and functional window dressing. Embrace the opportunity to personalize your space with various curtain styles, fabrics, and valance designs, and transform your windows into stunning focal points that add warmth and charm to your home.
How high should a valance be hung?
This translates to 1 to 2 inches below the ceiling line or crown molding. You’ll have more freedom to hang the valance as you desire in a room with higher ceilings, but it’s best to still hang it high. With 9- or 10-foot ceilings, the valance should hang at least halfway between the top of the window and ceiling.
The height at which a valance should be hung depends on several factors, including the window size, the valance style, and the overall look you want to achieve. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
Proportions: As a rule of thumb, the valance’s height should be about one-fifth to one-sixth of the total height of the window. For example, if your window is 60 inches tall, the valance should be around 10 to 12 inches high. This proportion ensures a balanced and visually pleasing appearance.
Valance Style: The valance style also plays a role in determining its height. Some valances, like balloon or Austrian valances, have more exaggerated and billowy designs, so they may be taller to showcase their unique features. On the other hand, a simpler style, like a straight valance or a tailored box-pleated valance, may be shorter.
Covering Hardware: The valance should be hung high enough to cover the curtain rod or track and any associated hardware. Mount the valance above the window frame to create a more substantial and finished look.
Room Height: Consider the overall height of the room. In rooms with high ceilings, a taller valance can add grandeur and elegance. In rooms with lower ceilings, a shorter valance can create a more balanced and proportionate appearance.
Do you need a separate curtain rod for valance?
We recommend using two single curtain rods of 1″ – 2″ in diameter: the top one is for the valance with swags and tails, and the lower one for the two curtain panels. This way, you have more flexibility in adjusting height, width and projection (distance from the wall).
Whether you need a separate curtain rod for a valance depends on the style and design of your window treatment, as well as your personal preference. In some cases, using a separate curtain rod for the valance can enhance the overall look and functionality of the window treatment.
Layered Look: If you are going for a layered window treatment with curtains and a valance, a separate curtain rod for the valance allows you to hang the two elements independently. This gives you more control over adjusting the curtains and valance separately, providing flexibility in light control and privacy.
Valance Design: Certain valance styles, like balloon valances or swags, may require a separate rod to achieve their unique appearance. The valance’s structure and draping may need a dedicated rod to maintain their shape and design.
Mounting Space: In some cases, the window frame’s limited space may require a separate rod for the valance. This can be especially true for wider windows where fitting both curtains and valance on a single rod becomes challenging.
Visual Appeal: Using a separate rod for the valance can create a more refined and elegant look. It allows the valance to take center stage and provides a clean, uncluttered appearance.
What is the point of valance curtains?
Valances can be used to create a border around the tops of any roller shade or blinds. They also provide an extra layer that helps insulate your room against temperature changes and prevent drafts from coming in through open windows.
The primary purpose of valance curtains is to enhance the aesthetics of windows and complete the overall look of a room’s decor. Valances are decorative top treatments that cover the upper part of the window, usually mounted on a separate curtain rod or track. They come in various styles, such as straight valances, swags, cornices, and balloon valances, each offering a unique and elegant appearance.
Valances serve several functional and decorative roles:
Concealing Hardware: Valances hide the curtain rod or track and associated hardware, creating a polished and finished look. They add a layer of sophistication, ensuring that the window treatment appears seamless and visually appealing.
Softening Window Frames: Valances soften the hard edges of window frames, creating a more inviting and cozy atmosphere. They add a touch of softness and elegance to the overall window design.
Enhancing Style: Valances allow homeowners to introduce various colors, patterns, and textures into the room’s decor. They offer an opportunity to showcase unique fabrics and complement the existing interior design.
Covering Imperfections: Valances can cleverly cover imperfect or damaged window frames or hide less attractive views, adding a touch of charm without obstructing natural light.
Balancing Proportions: In rooms with high ceilings, valances can help visually balance the space by bringing the focus downward, creating a harmonious and well-proportioned ambiance.
How deep should a valance be?
The average advice is a valance is usually 15 inches deep, but adjustments will be made to fit your window. A large, tall picture window, for example, may work best with a 17-inch deep valance. A small bedroom window may find that a 10- or 12-inch valance is a better fit.
The depth of a valance, also known as the “drop” or “return,” is an important consideration when creating a well-proportioned and visually appealing window treatment. The depth of the valance should be determined by the window size, valance style, and the desired look you want to achieve.
Standard Depth: A common depth for a valance is around 12 to 18 inches. This depth provides sufficient coverage for most windows and creates a balanced and proportionate appearance.
Valance Style: Different valance styles may have varying depths. For example, a tailored straight valance may have a shallower depth, while a balloon or Austrian valance with more billowy features may have a deeper depth.
Window Size: Consider the size of your window when determining the valance depth. For larger windows, a deeper valance can add drama and elegance, while smaller windows may benefit from a more modest depth.
Proportions: The depth of the valance should be in proportion to the overall height of the window. As a general rule, the valance depth should be around one-fifth to one-sixth of the window’s total height.
Fabric and Pleating: The type of fabric used for the valance and the pleating style can also affect the depth. Some fabrics may have more natural drape and require less depth, while stiffer fabrics or elaborate pleating may need more depth to achieve their desired look.
What type of curtain rod or hardware is best for hanging curtains with a valance?
When hanging curtains with a valance, it’s essential to select the right type of curtain rod or hardware to ensure proper support and a polished appearance. There are several options available, each catering to different window sizes and valance styles.
Standard Curtain Rod: A basic curtain rod with decorative finials is a versatile and popular choice for hanging curtains with valance. It provides a traditional and elegant look that complements various decor styles.
Double Curtain Rod: For a layered window treatment with both curtains and a valance, a double curtain rod is an excellent option. It allows you to hang the curtains on one rod and the valance on the other, creating a well-coordinated and balanced ensemble.
Traverse Rod: Traverse rods are ideal for heavy or thick curtains and work well with valances that need to be easily drawn open or closed. They have a cord mechanism that allows for smooth and effortless operation.
Valance Rod: A specialized valance rod is designed specifically for hanging valances. It is often smaller and more discreet than standard curtain rods, allowing the valance to take center stage.
Track System: A track system with hooks or clips is a versatile option for hanging both curtains and a valance. It provides a clean and contemporary look while offering easy adjustability.
What are the essential steps for installing the curtain rod or track securely?
Installing the curtain rod or track securely is crucial to ensure the stability and functionality of your window treatment. Here are the essential steps to follow for a secure installation:
Gather Tools: Before starting, gather all the necessary tools, including a measuring tape, level, pencil, drill, screws, anchors (if needed), and any specific hardware that comes with the curtain rod or track.
Measure and Mark: Measure the width of your window and determine the desired height for the curtain rod or track. Use a level and pencil to mark the positions for the brackets or clips. Ensure the marks are straight and at the same height on both sides of the window.
Install Brackets or Clips: Securely attach the brackets or clips to the wall or window frame using screws and anchors (if required). Make sure the brackets are level and firmly in place.
Hang the Rod or Track: Carefully hang the curtain rod or track onto the installed brackets or clips. If using a traverse rod or track system, ensure that the cord or glider mechanism functions smoothly.
Check for Stability: Test the curtain rod or track by gently pulling on the curtains or valance to ensure it is secure and can handle the weight.
Adjust and Level: If needed, make any adjustments to the brackets or clips to ensure the rod or track is level and straight.
Attach Curtains and Valance: Once the curtain rod or track is securely installed, hang the curtains and valance according to your desired window treatment design.
How can I arrange the curtains and valance to achieve a seamless and polished look?
Arranging the curtains and valance properly is essential to achieve a seamless and polished look for your window treatment. Here are some tips to help you create a well-coordinated and visually appealing ensemble:
Layering: Hang the valance above the curtain rod or track, ensuring it covers the hardware. The curtains should then hang below the valance, creating a layered effect. This arrangement conceals the mechanics of the curtain rod and gives a finished appearance.
Length and Proportions: Ensure that both the curtains and valance are proportional to the window size. The valance should be about one-third of the window’s height, and the curtains should ideally touch the floor or hover just above it. This lengthens the appearance of the window and adds a touch of elegance.
Fabric Coordination: Choose curtains and valance fabrics that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and pattern. If the valance has a bold pattern, opt for solid-colored curtains, or vice versa. Harmonious fabric choices create a cohesive and balanced look.
Mounting Placement: When installing the curtain rod or track, ensure it is mounted slightly above the window frame and extends beyond the window’s width. This technique creates an illusion of a larger window and allows the curtains to fully open, maximizing natural light.
Symmetry: Maintain symmetry in the arrangement of the curtains and valance. Ensure that both sides of the window treatment are even, with an equal number of pleats or folds for a polished look.
Finishing Touches: Iron the curtains and valance to remove any wrinkles and ensure a crisp and neat appearance. Tying back the curtains with decorative holdbacks or tiebacks can also add an elegant touch.
How do I attach the valance to the curtain rod or track effectively?
Attaching the valance to the curtain rod or track effectively is essential to ensure a secure and polished window treatment. Here’s how you can do it:
Determine Attachment Method: Check the design of your valance and identify the recommended attachment method. Some valances have rod pockets, while others may have tabs, loops, or clips for attachment. Ensure that your curtain rod or track is compatible with the valance’s attachment style.
Positioning: Place the valance on a flat surface, and position it with the right side facing down. This will be the side that faces outward when hung on the window.
Slide-on Method: If your valance has a rod pocket, gently insert the curtain rod through the pocket until the entire rod is evenly distributed within the pocket. Adjust the valance’s positioning on the rod to achieve a balanced appearance.
Clip or Hook Method: For valances with tabs, loops, or clips, simply attach them securely to the curtain rod or track. Make sure the valance is evenly spaced and hangs smoothly.
Secure the Valance: If needed, use safety pins or hand-stitching to secure the valance to the curtain rod or track, especially if the valance is heavy or you want to prevent any shifting.
Check Appearance: Stand back and inspect the valance to ensure it hangs straight and evenly. Adjust the positioning if necessary to achieve a well-balanced and polished look.
Conclusion
Hanging curtains with a valance is a delightful way to transform your windows and elevate the aesthetic appeal of any room. By following the steps and tips provided in this comprehensive guide, you can achieve a beautifully coordinated and polished window treatment ensemble.
From selecting the right curtain rod or track to ensuring secure and balanced installations, every detail contributes to a visually pleasing and functional result. Coordinating the fabrics, paying attention to proportions, and maintaining symmetry are key to creating a seamless and sophisticated look.
A well-hung curtain and valance combination not only adds style and elegance but also enhances privacy, light control, and the overall ambiance of your living space. Embrace your creativity, experiment with different fabrics, colors, and valance designs, and create a window treatment that reflects your personal taste and complements your decor. With the right approach, you can turn your windows into captivating focal points that add warmth and charm to your home.
