Sewing Austrian Valance: A Step-By-Step Guide To Mastering The Art

Austrian valances are a type of window treatment that features a softly gathered appearance, often with a scalloped bottom edge. They are typically made using shirring tape, which creates soft, gathered folds. Despite their complicated appearance, Austrian valances are relatively simple to make and install. This paragraph will provide an overview of the process for sewing an Austrian valance, including the tools and steps needed to create this elegant window treatment.

Measuring and cutting the fabric

To make an Austrian valance, you will need 2 yards of fabric that is 36 to 45 inches wide. The finished valance will be 14 inches high. Cut two widths of fabric at 36 inches long. Sew the two pieces together and press the seam.

Now, you will need to create the hems. First, fold a hem on each side of 1 1/2 inches and fold again by 1 1/2 inches, press and pin, then sew. At the bottom of the valance, fold a 3-inch hem, press, and fold again. Pin and sew this hem, mitering the corners at the side hem. You can sew any trim or fringe you like along the bottom of the hem.

At the top, fold under 1/2 inch and press. Then, fold down 1 1/2 inches, press, pin, and stitch. This fold will create the rod pocket for the top of the valance.

Folding the edges

Folding the Short Sides:

• With the print side of the fabric facing down, fold over the short edge of the fabric inward by 0.5 inches (1.3 cm). This initial fold will conceal the raw, cut edge of the fabric.
• Use an iron on a low heat setting to crease the fold. Apply the iron along the folded edge until the fabric retains the fold without holding it in place. Adjust the iron's setting to suit the fabric type, opting for a delicate setting for delicate fabrics.
• Repeat the folding and ironing process, this time folding the fabric inward by 1 inch (2.5 cm). Ensure a consistent fold width along the entire edge.
• Repeat the above steps for the other short edge of the valance, creating matching folds on both sides.

Folding the Bottom Edge:

• Following the same process as for the short sides, first, fold the bottom edge inward by 0.5 inches (1.3 cm).
• Iron the fold with a low heat setting, creasing it neatly.
• Again, fold the fabric inward, this time by 1 inch (2.5 cm), and iron this second fold to match the first.
• The bottom edge of the valance should now have two consistent folds, securing the raw edge neatly.

Folding the Top Edge:

• For the top edge, start by folding the fabric over by 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) and ironing the fold to create a neat crease.
• To form a loop for the curtain rod, measure 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the edge of the first fold and create a second fold. This section will be folded towards the inside of the fabric.
• Iron the final fold to crease it, completing the loop for the curtain rod.

Once all edges are folded and ironed, your Austrian valance is almost ready for sewing. The next step is to secure the corners with pins before stitching the folds in place.

Sewing the edges

To sew the edges of an Austrian valance, start by folding a hem on each side. For a neat finish, fold the fabric inward twice by 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) and press and pin it at each stage before sewing. Repeat this process for both sides and the bottom of the valance.

For the top of the valance, first, fold under 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) and press. Then, fold down 1.5 inches (3.8 cm), press, pin, and stitch to form the rod pocket.

Next, lay the fabric out flat, wrong side up, and find the centre. Measure and mark 12 inches (30.5 cm) from the centre on both sides – these will be the stitching lines for the shirring tape. Place the shirring tape along these lines, starting at the edge of the hem and ending at the bottom of the rod pocket. Stitch through all layers, being careful not to sew through any of the cords.

Finally, pull the cords in each row of shirring tape to gather the fabric to the desired length. Tie the cords securely and cut off any excess length. Stitch across the top of the shirring tape through the tape and cords to secure.

Creating the rod pocket

Step 1: Folding the Top Edge

Begin by folding the top edge of the fabric over by 0.5 inches (1.3 cm). This initial fold will ensure that the raw edge of the fabric is hidden. Use an iron to crease the fold, setting it in place. Make sure to use a suitable heat setting for the fabric you are working with.

Step 2: Second Fold

After creasing the first fold, measure and fold the fabric again, this time by 2 inches (5.1 cm). This second fold will create the loop through which the curtain rod will be inserted. Iron this fold as well to create a crisp edge.

Step 3: Securing the Folds

Before moving to the sewing machine, it is essential to secure the folds in place. Place a pin at each of the four corners of the valance to hold the folds in position. You may add more pins if desired, but the creases created with the iron should be sufficient.

Step 4: Sewing the Rod Pocket

Now, it's time to sew the rod pocket. Using your sewing machine, stitch a straight line approximately 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) from the inner edge of the fold. Sew along all four sides of the fabric, keeping your stitching on the inside. Remember to remove the pins as you sew.

Step 5: Reinforcing the Seam

To ensure the strength of the rod pocket, sew an extra straight stitch along the bottom edge of the top fold. Sew approximately 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) from the bottom of the fold, securing the outer edges of the valance.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once you have finished sewing, trim away any excess threads to neaten your work. Now, your Austrian valance is ready to be hung. Insert the curtain rod through the loop you have created, and hang it over your window. Ensure that the printed or decorative side of the fabric is facing the room.

Hanging the valance

Once you've sewn your Austrian valance, it's time to hang it up and show off your handiwork! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Hanging the Austrian Valance:

Step 1: Prepare the Valance:

Before hanging, give your valance a quick once-over to ensure it's ready for installation. Check that the rod pocket at the top of the valance is securely stitched and large enough for your curtain rod to pass through. Also, confirm that any trim or fringe you've added to the bottom hem is securely attached.

Step 2: Install the Curtain Rod:

If you haven't already, install the curtain rod according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, this involves marking the desired height on the wall, drilling holes, and securing the rod brackets with screws. Make sure the rod is level and sturdy before proceeding.

Step 3: Insert the Valance:

Slide the valance onto the curtain rod by feeding the rod through the rod pocket. Work your way from one end of the rod to the other, gently pushing and manoeuvring the fabric as needed. Ensure the valance is centred on the rod and that the fabric is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Hang the Curtain Rod:

With the valance in place, carefully lift the curtain rod and secure it into the mounted brackets. Double-check that the rod is firmly attached and level. Adjust the valance as needed so that it hangs evenly and smoothly.

Step 5: Arrange the Folds:

Austrian valances are known for their softly gathered appearance. To achieve this look, gently arrange the fabric so that it forms uniform, elegant folds. Play around with the fabric until you achieve a look that pleases you. You may also want to adjust the gathers so that they are more or less full, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Final Touches:

With the valance hung and styled, take a step back and admire your work! Make any final adjustments to ensure the valance is centred and the folds are symmetrical. If you're using tie-back curtains underneath, arrange them so that they complement the valance and create a well-balanced, formal appearance.

Your Austrian valance is now ready to be enjoyed! This classic window treatment adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room. Congratulations on completing this project and enjoying your hand-sewn creation!

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