Sometimes known as a Pouf or Cloud valance this is an ideal treatment for use with Café curtains but looks equally good as a single treatment for small windows. This very simple valance is an unlined rectangle of fabric with a casing at the top and bottom. The fabric is threaded onto curtain rods through both casings with the lower rod fixed in a position to allow the valance to drape over and conceal it. Crisp, lightweight fabrics are the best ones to use for this valance which can be stuffed with tissue paper to hold it's shape.
These free illustrated instructions will enable you to make this simple balloon valance to enhance your window treatments.

Requirements:

Suitable fabric.

2 curtain rods ¾" (20mm) diameter to fit across the width of the window frame with a projection of 1" (2.5 cms).

Matching thread.

Tissue paper if required.

Measuring:

For a full effect the width must be at least twice the length of the curtain rods adding 2" (5 cms) for side hems.
To measure the length the curtain rods must be fixed in place. Attach the top rod 1" (2.5 cms) above the top of the window frame. Attach the bottom rod 2" or 3" (5 or 7.5 cms) above the point where the valance is to end.
Hold the tape measure to the top edge of the top rod and the top edge of the bottom rod letting it loop between the two until you achieve the desired effect. This measurement will be the length of the finished valance. Add 4" (10 cms) to this measurement for hems.
If wider curtain rods are used add 4 times the width of one rod to allow for hems.

Making a balloon valance:

Cut fabric to the required size joining widths, if necessary, with a french seam and matching the pattern where applicable.

Turn in a double ½" (13 mm) at each side and stitch.

Turn a double 1" (2.5 cms) hem at the top and bottom edges and pin close to fold this will form the casing for the rods to go through.

Check that the rods will fit through the casing and adjust the hems if necessary.

Stitch hems close to the fold and press.

Thread the valance onto the top and bottom rods.

Adjust the gathers evenly, pull out the flounces and stuff with tissue paper to achieve the desired effect.