Actually, I have just been working a new schedule at work with more hours, and I still have a baby that I just love spending time with!!!! I am doing projects, that will never end. But I haven't had as much time to edit photos and write posts.
So I am very happy to be here today sharing a post about sewing two valances for our master bedroom. I have had this fabric since before we moved in..... and I just finished these last week! They only took me 15 months to get to, and about 2 hours total to make both.
The fabric was actually a curtain that I was not using. I bought Pottery Barn curtains to match our duvet cover (for our large window - not shown in photos). So I had 2 panels that I was not using. I used one for the valances, with a bunch to spare. I will use the other in the bathroom, most likely.
I have two smaller windows on one wall that I currently have room darkening roller shades in. These are the windows I needed to make something for. This is how the valance turned out.
This valance was so easy to make. I think it took me TWO hours to make both!!! For the sewing I would call this a beginner project. You just need to make straight stitches and that is all.
Are you ready to make one...or two?
Gather your supplies:
Material for valance
Lining material (either cream or white or room darkening)
Tape measure
Scissors
Straight Pins
Iron
Curtain rod
Sewing Machine
Thread to match fabric
Thread to match liner (for bobbin)
First Measure your window and add on either side for how wide you want your valance to be outside the window. I did not want mine wider than the window. But I had to add 2 inches on either side because my curtain rod is the kind that you don't see and it makes a return to the wall, which is covered by fabric.
Then decide how high above your window you want your valance to start and how low you want it to hang in front of the window.
After you have those measurements: add 1/2 inch on the sides and the bottom for your seam allowance.
At the top, add enough for your rod pocket plus an extra 1/2 inch for folding under. For example, if your curtain rod needs 1 1/4 inch to fit easily add that plus and extra 1/2 inch for folding under. This means you would add 1 3/4 inches to your measurements for the top.
When you have done that cut out your fabric and liner to your measurements.
Place them RIGHT SIDES TOGETHER.
Pin around the sides and the bottom.
Sew on three sides (leaving top unsewn) using a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
Turn right sides out and iron. I can not stress how important this step is. Ironing all your seams will make a huge difference in how professional your project looks!
Now you need to make your rod pocket. Fold the top back 1/2 inch and iron.
Now fold it back again the measurement you added for your rod pocket and IRON. I use the little ruler pictured here with a slide to mark where you want your measurement to be. My mother had one of these, and I remember using it when I was young. If you enjoy sewing and don't have one, go get one. It keeps your hems nice and straight!
Okay, you are done! .........
Or you can add a little gathering like I did. I measured in from the side about 1 3/4 inch. I just gathered the fabric up a little making three folds. I pinned it and stitched it from top to bottom so you can't see the thread from the front. Make sure to hide the knot in a fold.
Now do this on the other side, making sure you measure in from the side and gather at the same place. Also, leaving the same amount of material below and above your gather.
Then hang them up and admire your handy work!
You can see another valance I made for the boys room here. I used blackout curtain liner for those. I hung them on a tension rod for an interior mount and I did not gather them. Same basic idea for a different look.
Share your version on my facebook page, or send me an email!
Don't forget, I had to change the domain name and I am still working on updating the website links. I apologize if you click on a link from an older post and it does not work. I am hoping to get them all corrected soon. You can read about this here.
Happy Hump Day!
Sharing at: A Simple Pantry, Crafty Allie
