How Long Should Window Valances Be

As far as finding the right valance for your windows is concerned the market today offers a delightful range in valance patterns and styles so you can be certain to find the exact kind of valances that you need to realize your dream look.

How long should window valances be.

Starting at the top of the window opening or curtain rod the valance should be between about 12 and 18 inches deep in most cases around 15 inches. There are many valances that may have a 36 or 48 inch extra long jabot yet the drop is only 20 inches. When measuring fabric for the width of the valance multiply the width of the window by 1 5 to 3. While the temptation is to simply measure the width of your window and use that measurement for the valance this is actually incorrect.

The right window valance hung in the right manner has the potential to turn a beautiful space into a breathtaking one. A slimmer pencil pleat can have a minimum drop of 6 inches as a window topper. Your valance should hang between 16 and 21 inches depending on the height of your window. Valance length is determined by the size of the window and the style of the valance.

A valance that is too short or too long will distract the eye. Typically a valance is 1 5 the length of the implied window length but this is a personal choice. Another rule of thumb used by decorators is that the window valance depth should be 1 4 of the overall window height plus 1 inch. Step 1 determine the size of your valance.

Drop and length on a traditional. The length of the valance is determined by a number of different elements including its height and the height of other items in the space. A 60 inch tall window then would call for a 16 inch deep valance while a 48 inch window calls for a valance about 13 inches deep. Most valances should only be 1 1 2 to 5 inches wider than the window if the valance hangs by itself or over a roman shade.

It should be 10 to 30 inches wider than the window if it s hung over a pair of custom drapes. If you want to go with a standard size a typical valance is about 14 inches or 36 centimeters long from the lower edge of the rod to the bottom of the hem. So how much wider should a valance be than the window then. If the valance is gathered its total flat width should be 2 to 3.

For example a fuller pinch pleat valance should have a minimum drop of 8 inches. Measure the width of your window opening or curtain rods and make a note. A valance that is too short or too long will distract the eye.