A simple way to accentuate a window without the burden of hanging heavy and difficult window valances is to use a scarf treatment. Window scarf valances hang easily and function mainly to expose a decorative curtain rod and let maximum light come through while imparting the beauty and style you desire.
One thing to note though is that they only work with certain types of window dressings. As they are typically light and carry an airy vibe to them, so should the other window adornment. The best things to use these with are blinds and sheer or fine curtains. You could put them on a bare window but it might not be enough dressing. Your window may look too bare.
We’re going to make a scarf window valance that hangs in an arch. You can make as many arches as you like though. You will be able to drape this in any room of your choice or you can make multiple window valances for several rooms. There is no real science to hanging these; it’s more an art form. So let’s begin.
- What you will need:
- tape measure
- decorative rod, drapery pole or scarf hooks
- fabric of choice
- the same amount of fabric for a contrasting lining
- a pair of tie backs
- thread that matches the fabric
- pins
The first thing you want to do is take the tape measure and get the measurements of the window you want to dress with a window scarf valance. This measurement will be used to find a decorative rod and account for how much fabric you will need. It is always best to assume at least three times the amount of fabric to the width of the window. Rods can be adjustable and should extend out past the width of the frame. Use your best judgment.
Take your chosen hardware (rod, drapery pole or scarf hooks) and measure two inches over the window and at least three inches past the molding of the window frame for outside mounting. Mark where you want the mounts to go and attach them. If you are decorating a large window you may want to attach wall mounts above the window along the path of the frame to give support. This may be necessary no matter the width of the window if using a decorative pole. Try to attach this in the center of the window in line with the outside brackets.
Once the window treatment hardware is set hang the fabric to get a proper adjustment for hanging. Leave enough material to make an arch or several arches along the top of the window. Once that’s done, clip or tie the corners to mark where the fabric will hang and remove the scarf.
Optional: You may want to make a hem along the fabric for a more finished look.
Lay the scarf material on the floor and start forming the pleats lengthwise. These should be uniform and of the same width (about 8 inches wide). You may have to remove the markers to do this. Use a pin or a clip to mark the hanging points in the meantime. After setting the pleats, make as many more scarf window valances as you need to complete the room. It’s better to make them all at once while you have the information fresh in your head. Then you can go back and hang them all at the same time.
Once you’ve finished all of your scarf valance window treatments it’s time to hang them. It’s probably a good idea to take any leftover material and gently tie the scarf at intervals to preserve all your hard work in making the pleats. It’s take time and several adjustments to get the right hang on your window scarf valance and having the material secured in the process will save you from having the start over. Remember to tie the material loosely. You only want them to secure the material long enough to hang the scarf.
Take your first scarf and hang it along your holder of choice. Center it using the marked areas you pinned earlier. Adjust for the arch to hang as low as you want. If using scarf rings you will want to gently feed the material through the rings being careful to upset the pleats as little as possible. It will take a little less time if using a simple rod or pole. Adjust the lengths by pulling at the bottoms of the scarf. Fluff the pleats as desired and you are finished. Repeat the steps for the remaining window scarf valances.
Related Articles:
- Tips For Your Scarf Window Valance
- Three Basic Rules To Making Window Valances
- How To Hang A Scarf On A Bay Window