An Easy-To-Make Reversible Valance
This easy valance can be made to have two different looks with only one sewing session. Use it in your bathroom and coordinate it with your shower curtain. You'll have a finished look in a short time. Choose a lining fabric that goes well with your main fabric because it will show slightly in the side folds after it is hung at the window. White or off-white is always safe. It is easy to tuck a shade under a valance for privacy. Supplies: Enough fabric for front and lining panels according to size of window Thread to match fabric Step-by-Step: 1. Measure the rod or the width of the window and multiply by 2 1/2 to get the FINISHED WIDTH of the panel. Divide this by the width of your fabric to know how many cuts you'll need. 2. Measure to the desired length. If your window is divided by panes, for example, it's usually best if you go to the half way point to measure. Or, if the window is tall and narrow, it looks better if you go down 1/3 on the window. To this length add the header and rod pocket allowance that will depend upon the rod size. This will be the CUT LENGTH of each panel. The number of cuts multiplied by the length will give you the yardage needed. 3. Join widths of fabric to achieve the finished width, then clip or remove selvedges. Join lining pieces in the same manner. 4. Determine how deep the center part of the valance will hang on the window. 5. Fold the fabric panel into thirds and mark it with a pin. The middle third of the panel will be cut to the shortest length and the side thirds will be cut on a gentle curve to the longest point at the window. Remember to add the rod pocket, header and seam allowance to these measurements. 6. Using a water erasable pen, mark half of the panel of fabric for cutting. When you like the angle you have marked, carefully fold the panel in half and cut both sides at the same time. 7. Cut the lining panel using the cut panel as a pattern. 8. With the right sides of these panels facing each other sew around the outside edges and curves leaving openings for rod pockets and for turning right side out, using a 5/8 in. seam throughout. 9. Before turning, clip the curves and taper the points at the corners. 10. Press turned panel and slip stitch the opening closed. 11. Measure and mark two parallel rows of stitching to create a rod pocket. Be careful not to msew this too tight, making it difficult to slip the valance onto the rod. Sandy's question and answer columns can be found in the personalities area. HouseNet, Inc.
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