DIY Network

Insert Valances New valances sewn from complementary fabrics add elegance to the windows. From "Material Girls" episode DMTG-202

April Eden and C.J. Moore add a little elegance to the windows with inlaid valances. Made of two different fabrics, the valances are paired with curtains to add a new dimension to the window.

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Materials:

	Insert Valance
	Window: before
	Window: after

fabric (2 different)
liner
measuring tape
pins
painter's paper
fabric chalk
scissors
sewing machine

1. Measure the windows to determine the size of the valance.

2. Make a pattern for the valance out of the painter's paper. Measure the paper to the desired size of the valance, adding 1" for seam allowance and 4" at the top for the rod pocket.

3. Fold the paper in half and either freehand a design or use a pattern (for this valance, April Eden used a freehand scalloped design). Mark and cut accordingly.

4. Lay the pattern on the fabric and trace with fabric chalk. Repeat on the liner fabric. Cut out the patterns.

5. Pin the valance fabric face down onto the liner and stitch the sides and around the bottom. Leave the top open. Turn the valance right side out and press.

6. Lay the valance aside for now so you can work on the underlay piece. The underlay piece simply consists of a rounded piece of fabric. Use a contrasting color to help with the layered look. Cut the underlay piece to be the same length as the valance, but remember to add 1" for seam allowance and 4" for the rod pocket.

7. Again use the painter's paper to create a pattern (remember to fold the paper in half so the pattern will be exactly symmetrical). Trace the pattern on the fabric and cut. Repeat with the liner. Using the same process as before, sew the fabric and liner pieces together.

8. Lay the top piece of the valance face down and the underlay piece face down on top of it. Line up the bottoms of the fabric. Fold the top over 3" and fold in for a smooth hem.

9. Pin in place and sew a straight stitch all the way down; this creates the rod pocket.

Finally it's time for the finishing touches. Beautiful floor-length curtains are added to the windows, and the chairs are re-covered with a soft velvet fabric. A tablecloth and napkins give the table a little extra flair, and a runner for the sideboard adds an extra touch of elegance.

Dining room: before

Dining room: after

RESOURCES :

Waverly Fabrics
Website: www.waverly.com