What are Window Valances?

A valance, pronounced val-uhns, is a short window treatment that covers only the upper part of the window. Valances usually range in length from 10” to 18” and they were originally designed to hide curtain rods or other curtain hardware as well as providing a pleasant look without blocking much light. Window valances can be matched to any room decor whether it is traditional or modern, formal or casual. You can use a valance on its own or as part of a complete window treatment setup with other window treatments such as curtains and scarf panels.

There are such a wide variety of styles and sizes for window valances that it is easy for one to be confused when choosing which one to buy or make. Since there are many different styles of window valances, and each style can dramatically change the look of a room. Therefore, it would be helpful in being familiar with each style of window valance. Some valance styles include swag or jabot valances, balloon valances, pleated valances, and cornices.

Swag valances are just what the name implies; they are created with swags. You might even hear the terms jabots, cascades, and horns when describing swag valances. They are usually used in formal settings, but they are made with casual fabrics to create a lighter affect. The swag style is longer at each end raised in the center, while the jabot is a draped effect, which can be either structured or unstructured.

Balloon valances have layers and often filler is placed between the layers for a fuller, more dimensional look. The simple ones are made from a tightly gathered fabric and they are stuffed up so that they balloon out. The more elegant balloon valances are a shortened version of fabric shades, like the Austrian valance, roman shade valance, or the butterfly valance.

A pleated valance may use a box pleat, a pinched pleat, or a spaced pleat. A box-pleated valance is a valance with a square pleat, a pinched pleated valance has pleats like those found on high quality draperies, and a spaced pleated valance includes fewer pleats that have an equal distance between them.

A window cornice is any stiff valance. Although many people use the terms "cornice" and "valance" interchangeably, there is a difference between them. A cornice is generally made from rigid materials, such as wood, and then painted or covered with fabric, whereas valances are just made with fabric. It is also used to disguise curtain rods and other hardware. When using a wooden cornice a soft valance is sometimes added below.

Window valances are a great way to add a fresh, new touch to existing window treatments, or they can even make a statement on their own. Either way you choose to use them, they will add elegance to any room in your home.
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