No Sew Tie-On Window Valance

I received an email two weeks ago, asking me about the window treatment in my master bath that I included in my Parade of Homes House Tour. When I went through the post, I realized that I hadn’t done a tutorial post on how to make this no sew window valance. I wasn’t sure how I was going to explain the process. It is one that I quickly fashioned without a pattern and using only what I had on hand. When I worked in retail display – this is how we made everything – we had to create using only with what we had in the prop room to make all sorts of decorative treatments in a short period of time. I used fabric glue for everything.

I am going to try my best to explain how I made it. I made another one that is even simpler to hang, so that you can see there are options and no wrong or right way to make something for your home – only what your skills and style dictate is right for you.

No Sew Tie-On Window Valance Tutorial

Supplies Needed:

• Fabric (double the width of the window for your width measurement)
• 1 yard of ribbon for each tie (you’ll need 4 ties for a 36” wide window)
• Fabric glue
• Curtain rod
• Iron-on fleece or felt (optional)
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

Two Versions of the No Sew Tie-On Window Valance

Version 1: Gathered Tie On Window Valance

The valance in my master bath is a white rectangle of fabric that is tied onto vintage swing rods with ribbon. I bought the swing rods many years ago. You can find rods like these by doing a Google search for “Drapery Swing Rods” or “Vintage Swing Rods.” Since I liked the size and shape of it, I fashioned a simpler valance with updated colors, when I redecorated the room a few years ago.

Fabric Needed:

• Double the width of the window for your width measurement (mine was 36-inches)
• The height – 15 inches is what I used (doubled for the lining)
• Add 2-inches to each measurement to turn over to make finished edges/hems

How to Make the Gathered Tie On Valance:

1. Fold all the raw edges of the cut fabric over 1-inch and then press them.
2. Fold the entire piece of fabric in half lengthwise.
3. Run a line of fabric glue all along the folded edges and press to create sealed seams.
4. Gather the fabric by hand, starting on one top edge of the valance.
5. Wrap the ribbon around the gathered fabric and secure with a knot.
6. Bring the ends of the ribbon around the rod and back to the front of the gathered fabric.
7. Tie the ribbon into a knot to secure the gathered fabric to the rod.
8. Repeat at the opposite end and then tie the two center gathered ties.

How to Hang the Gathered Tie On Valance:

1. Start on one top edge of the valance and gather about 5-6 inches of fabric in your hand.
2. Wrap the ribbon around it and secure with a knot.
3. Bring the ends of the ribbon around the rod and back to the front of the gathered fabric.
4. Tie the ribbon into a knot to secure the gathered fabric to the rod.
5. Repeat at the opposite end and then tie the two center gathered ties.
6. Use your fingers to smooth the top of the dips and to spread out the fabric above each tie.
7. The bottom will automatically lay into soft folds.

Version 2: Simple Tie On Window Valance

For this version, I used a traditional curtain rod and a simpler design. I cut the fabric to the same dimensions as Version 1, but this time, I didn’t fold the raw edges over and glue them. Instead, I simply tied the fabric onto the rod with ribbon.

How to Make the Simple Tie On Window Valance:

1. Cut the fabric to the same dimensions as Version 1.
2. Tie the fabric onto the rod with ribbon, starting at one end and working your way around the rod.
3. Make sure to tie the fabric tightly to the rod to prevent it from sagging.
4. Use your fingers to smooth the top of the fabric and to spread out the folds.

Tips and Variations:

• Use iron-on fleece or felt to create a lining for the valance.
• Add decorative trim or embellishments to the valance for extra flair.
• Use a variety of fabrics and colors to create a unique and personalized look.
• Hang the valance at different heights to create a layered look.
• Experiment with different tie styles and techniques to create a unique and personalized look.

Conclusion:

Making a no sew tie-on window valance is a simple and easy process that can add decorative interest to any room. With two different versions to choose from, you can create a look that suits your style and skills. Remember, there’s no wrong or right way to make something for your home – only what your skills and style dictate is right for you.