Master Hanging Curtains with Valance in 5 Simple Steps

Transforming your windows with beautiful curtains and a coordinated valance is easier than you think. With just 5 simple steps, you can install a professional-looking window treatment to elevate any room.

From measuring and installing brackets, to mounting the rods and arranging the drapes, we've got you covered. With the right gear and a little know-how, you can do this project yourself and enjoy your stunning new windows in no time!

Step 1: Choose Your Curtains and Valance

The first step is selecting your curtain panels and valance. When buying curtains, decide on the length, fullness, and style you prefer. The length should fit your window, while the fullness and style complement your room's decor. Choose from elegant tab tops, casual rod pockets or more formal back tabs. Consider colors, patterns and materials too. Linen and cotton are popular breathable options.

For the valance, evaluate the window shape and room style. Delicate scalloped valances suit country spaces, while minimalist box pleat valances are modern. A balloon valance adds drama, or keep it simple with a flat valance. Coordinate valance colors and fabrics with your curtains for a cohesive look. Contrasting textures also add depth when layering.

Tips for Layering

• Hang the valance as the top layer, above the curtains
• Try coordinating or contrasting colors for interest
• Mixing complementary patterns and textures looks rich

Step 2: Measure and Mark Bracket Locations

Once you've selected your curtains and valance, it's time to measure. Start by measuring the width of your window frame. For optimal fullness and drape, add 8-12 inches to this width when sizing curtain rods. Consider surrounding trim too. Mark where you'll install the outer curtain rod brackets at the desired width.

For the valance brackets, mark 1-3 inches below the ceiling or any crown molding. Use a level to ensure your valance marks form a straight line across the top of the window. Space the valance bracket marks evenly between the outer curtain bracket marks.

Measuring Tips

• Add 8-12 inches to window width for rods
• Valance height is usually 1-3 inches below ceiling
• Always use a level for straight bracket marks

Step 3: Install Brackets

With all brackets marked, it's time to install them. Locate studs first for the most secure hold. If not screwing into studs, use hollow drywall anchors. Once brackets are loosely in place, re-check their alignment with your level. Even small gaps will throw off the final look, so adjust if needed.

When everything is perfectly aligned, drill pilot holes if attaching to drywall to prevent cracking. Finally, use a power drill and screwdriver bit to securely screw all brackets into place. Check levels one final time and tighten screws completely.

Bracket Install Tips

• Find studs for best strength
• Use drywall anchors if needed
• Pre-drill holes in drywall to avoid cracks
• Check alignment again before final tightening

Step 4: Mount Curtain and Valance Rods

The rods are next. For the curtain rod, extend it about 2-3 inches past the window frame on either side. This allows for optimal drape and stack-back. Before hanging the rod, open all the rings if your curtains have them. This prevents snags.

For the valance rod, mount it just below the height of your upper valance brackets. Getting it perfectly level keeps the valance even. Secure finials tightly to keep rods steady. If using two separate rods, hang the valance first, followed by the curtain rod.

Rod Tips

• Extend curtain rods beyond frame
• Open rings before hanging
• Level valance rod carefully
• Valance rod first for two rods

Step 5: Hang Curtains and Valance

The final step is hanging your curtains and valance. For curtains, evenly space and slide rings or rod pocket headings onto the rod. For tab tops, wrap tabs around rod and seam together. Ensure equal fullness and drape on both sides.

To hang the valance, simply slide it onto the upper rod, centering it over the window. For a valance with a rod pocket, feed the rod through. Adjust the valance so it's even across the top. Finally, arrange the curtain drapes and folds to your liking. Steam or iron if needed, and enjoy your beautiful new window treatment!

• Evenly space curtains and overlap headings
• Center valance over window
• Adjust drapes and folds
• Steam or iron fabrics

You can easily make the perfect window dressings with the right curtains, tools, and fabric. Installing them in 5 simple steps keeps the project manageable. Take your time, measure precisely and check for level lines. Soon you'll have beautiful new curtains and valances to showcase.