When it comes to least likely places to hang valances for windows children’s room or play areas manage at the top of the list for me. But if you want to add some fun and brighten up the area, window valances are the way to go. They come in many different styles and colors with varying degrees of expense but children are most attracted to bright colors and pastels and with these rooms you don’t have to go crazy on expensive fabric. In fact, you should keep it simple and easy to change as a way to help encourage your child’s ever-developing mind in a positive, healthy environment.
Safety First
In regards to window treatments, above all else you want to consider your child’s safety. With valances for windows, there’s not much to worry about as they are generally out of reach, but you should avoid other potential dangers, such as draw strings on blinds that a child can easily get wrapped up in and long curtains that toddlers could pull down on themselves. Attachments or decorations that could be easily pulled from the fabric, such as beads or other decorations should be avoided in the event your child manages to pull one free. This eliminates any choking possibilities.
Decorating On The Cheap
If you haven’t guessed by now, you can do this project with very little cost to you. With valances for windows child’s room decorating can still be stylish and exciting without a huge bill attached. The cost of fabric differs based on the intricacy, size, type of fabric, as well as any design or installation services that you might use, but generally you can do this yourself. Basic generic colors or designs can be found for less than 20 dollars premade or you can purchase fabric by the yard and make them yourself.
Bring On The Fun
Get excited about your project and get creative. Children aren’t too picky when it comes to colors. Use their favorite color as the balancing factor but add as many as you can without causing yourself an epileptic fit.
-To add contrast to the room without taking away from other areas, use the same valance for windows fabric or pattern in other places, such as lamp shades or pillows or even coverings for the tops of book cases. This provides contrast while tying the room together.
- Choose prints with your child’s favorite cartoon character or animal. This is especially easy when it comes to valances for wide windows as you can usually get a whole cast of characters or animals on one valance.
- For older children, cornice valances can be used. These work best in rooms with blinds as they can easily hide hardware and curtain rods. The nice thing about cornices is that you can attach or paint anything on the face and set objects on top that might interest your child.
- If you want to go very simple but creative, you can add ribbons and other colorful trim to existing valances. There are fabric tapes
When it comes time to hang them, you should be able to install them with very little effort. Hanging valances for window areas is similar to other window treatments or curtains in terms of hardware. All you need is a pair of brackets and a rod. Screws for the brackets should be the self-screw type so that you can easily use an electric screwdriver to set them. With the right hardware you can hang your valances in under an hour, depending on the number of windows.
Some Extra Advice
You don’t know how it happens but kids can get anything dirty, including valances. When choosing fabrics, select easy to wash material or material that can be easily dusted. It also helps to have an extra set of valances on hand when having to wash one set. Leftover fabric should be saved in case of needed sewing repairs.
A nice final design can be obtained for any room in your home with valances for windows; childrens room windows included. They can be personalized to match other décor and complete an overall theme. Very basic curtains are inexpensive and easy to install on your own however, design services can usually be found at window treatment retailers for a more comprehensive and unique look to your child’s playroom.
When ordering online, installation services are often not available however, some sites offer design services. When ordering from a brick and mortar location, installation rates can vary by location but are available. Design services are by far the most cost consuming service when shopping for window treatments. Custom made valances with even basic materials can cost hundreds of dollars per window and even thousands when nicer materials such as silk are used. That’s why we recommend simple, do-it-yourself styles.