Valance Window Treatment Ideas
Windows are a house's eyes onto the outside world. Effective window treatments not only complement the rest of your interior, they make a statement in their own right. Curtains, draperies and blinds help control light and provide privacy. Window valances, also known as cornice boards, are designed to cover up the mechanical devices that allow window coverings to be adjusted.
Fabric Valances
Fabric valances are typically hung on U-shaped metal rods. The simplest example is the top portion of a cafe curtain. Use the same fabric as your draperies for an easy match. A ruffle along the top or bottom edge gives the valance a little more body and a feeling of movement.
Valances do not have to be an exact match with your curtains. Choose a solid color from the drapery fabric, or stripes in coordinating colors. Use a darker fabric to visually shorten the window, or a lighter fabric to lengthen it.
Adding decorative trim to the valance for detail ads visual interest and can break up a solid-colored fabric. Tassels and braiding can be used to dress up a plain window treatment. Use a little extra fabric and add a swag to the front of the valance.
Wood Cornices
Wood-surfaced cornice boxes, in either stained or painted finish, create a sense of sophistication. They are typically made with three pieces of wood. A face panel and two side pieces hold the face out from the wall. Moldings along the edges of the cornice add architectural detail. Use a crown molding along the top edge, or a smaller beaded molding along the bottom.
Add carved rosettes and other wooden appliques, available in the molding aisle of most lumber retailers, to the face of the cornice for greater detail. Paint or stain them the same or in a contrasting color to the cornice face. Use identical or similar moldings to the existing woodwork to blend the new cornice in with the decor.
Draw and cut a decorative valance front from plywood or hard wood lumber using a jigsaw. Choose artwork with a simple, distinctive silhouette. Use a traditional design motif, such as floral, or a child's favorite character or animal. Paint the face of the cornice with the details of the design.
Upholstered Valances
Combine wood cornice and the rich detail of fabric with an upholstered valance. Cover the wooden frame with a fabric that matches or complements your window covering. Pad the wooden valance with foam or batting to soften the lines.
Use upholsterer's gimp or other fabric trims to add detail to the design. Wooden or metal rosettes and other decorations can also be added to the face of the valance on top of the fabric. Simply nail or staple through wooden decorations, fabric and foam into the wooden frame. Attach metal decorations with screws.
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