Hi There!
This is Andi's sister, Jill, here for a guest blog on sewing classroom valances for your windows or doorway.
Time to fancify your doors or windows?
Here is a simple ruffle window valance that makes me happy.
First, I choose my materials for 2 valances:
2 dowel rods (36in,)
4 wooden circle ends,
a twin sheet (great amount of
material for $5)
and, if you want accent material, I
bought 1 yard (this too could be a sheet)
all found at Walmart around $10.
{Yes, I prefer Target, but Walmart
crafts does my pocketbook right.}
This valance has a solid color backing and a “accent”
center. Translation: I used mostly the
cheap fabric, with smaller strip of “by the yard” fabric (on sale!) Plus, I didn’t
want to see the accent color from the outside.
First, I cut my solid fabric at 24” across the top of the
twin sheet. This amount seems to have
enough “ruffle” for a 36” inch valance.
Next, I cut my accent color at 9”. I need 2 strips sewn together at the short
end to match the length of the solid color.
Here are your variations:
Full
solid/print: Just cut 34-36” across top
of sheet. You would get at least 3 valances for
$5!
Different
colors front/back: cut 18” strips
“Accent”
color across bottom: Solid fabric @ 20” Accent @ 14-15”
Now back to sewing:
Place good sides of fabric together. Sew long seam about ½” from edge.
Now, sew other long sides together, making a long tube.
Turn right side out.
Iron flat, placing your “accent” color 2-3” inches from top
(this is where the casing for the dowel rod will be).
*If you choose to do a single
color, I would still put your seam at the casing point. This gives the ruffle edge a nicer crease.
Now, turn in short edges and run a seam along the edge
leaving at least a 1” hole for the dowel. Repeat on other short edge.
Next, run a seam along the top edge of the accent seam. And then, another one about 1-1 ½“ above.
Fish dowel through casing made by the 2 seams. Glue wooden circles to ends of dowel to hold
in place.
Fluff and hang!
My fancy hanging technique is to use 2 clear push pins. If you have block walls, I would recommend the
“Command hooks” with a small piece of
pipe cleaner.
Good Luck and Enjoy!
~Jill
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