Decorating With Curtain Valances

Window treatments are one of the most important accessories in room decor. With so many different styles, materials, shapes, colors, prints and patterns of window treatments, it can be quite confusing when attempting to decide which type is best for your home. One type of window treatment that’s quite popular are curtain valances.

Curtain valances are much like curtain panels except for length. These shorter versions of curtain panels are often utilized along with curtain panels but are also quite commonly used alone as well. Another style valance is one that comes attached to the top of the curtain panel.

Decorating with curtain valances is quite simple yet quite effective in enhancing a room’s decor. One of the aspects of these types of window treatments that tends to vary is the type of top they have. Tab tops are simply tabs of material attached along the upper portion of the valance. They slip onto a curtain rod and are about 4 inches in length. The valance itself is usually anywhere from 14 to 16 inches in length. Another style top is the grommet top. Grommets are metal rings shaped like donuts with holes in the middle. These grommets are inserted into the top of the valance and the curtain rod is weaved through them which gives a uniformed pleated look. A third style top is the rod pocket. Rod pockets are openings in the tops of curtain panels and valances that allow a rod to slip through and be concealed by the curtain, much like a sleeve. There are also tie tops which are just as they sound; two ties that tie around the curtain rod like a shoelaces.

Another huge variance is curtain valances is style. There are balloon valances, tailored valances, bamboo, and scarf style valances to name a few. Which type is best suited for your home will depend on the existing decor and the type of window. For more formal, traditional rooms, valances with embellishments such as beading, sequins and ruffles as well as in formal fabrics like silk are a good match. For more contemporary homes, choose sleek, simple curtains that don’t feature a lot of detail and fabrics like canvas, linen, sailcloth or cotton.

Curtain valances can be found in any large department store, home accessory store, bath and bedding store and even big box stores. For the best selection all in one place, start your search on the internet where many retailers often offer low or no shipping costs which makes it easier than ever to shop online.…