How to Measure a Window for a Scarf Valance
One of the most elegant finishing touches to window treatments is a beautiful scarf. Window scarves can be hung over draperies, curtains, blinds or shades to add a note of sophistication. Some are adorned with beads and tassels to add a dressy or fun touch.
Although they lend themselves to formal settings, scarves also work in provincial or rustic styles if the fabric drapes well. Perhaps the easiest window treatment to hang, scarves are a good choice for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Since they are simple rectangles, they are easy to make as well, requiring only hemming skills and an iron.
Things You Will Need
- Steel tape measure
- Ladder
- Scratch paper
- Pencil
Tip
To blouse the tails, make a loop in the part of the scarf that drops approximately 18 inches below the top and secure with a rubber band. Fluff the loop out to conceal the rubber band. If you want an 18-inch blouson you would add 18 inches to each tail measurement. Make sure the scarf is made of a fabric that drapes gracefully. This is especially important if you are planning to make your scarf from scratch. to get the required length, railroad the fabric (run fabric sideways off the bolt); do not cut in lengths panels) and sew together. If you make a scarf out of washable cloth wash the fabric first, use fabric conditioner in the rinse cycle and tumble dry so the scarf will not shrink and pucker if washed in the future. Iron before hemming.
Warning
Before hanging your scarf, take it out of the wrapper and check the colors as the lighting changes throughout the day. Make sure you like the way it looks in daylight and at night when the lights are on. If you choose a patterned scarf, be sure it complements the other patterns and textures in the room.
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Measure the height of each window and jot down the measurements. Use a ladder if you cannot comfortably reach the height of the window.
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Measure the width of each window, plus the amount the scarf is to extend onto the wall.
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Measure the distance you want the scarf to drop down on the left and right sides. The drops may be asymmetrical, if you wish.
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Add these three figures together to get the approximate length of scarf you need. Add 18 to 30 inches if you are planning to loop the scarf around the curtain rod or drop it down in the center. To blouse the tails, add an additional 12 to 18 inches for each tail.
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Purchase a scarf in length closest to this total measurement. One of the advantages of scarves is that they do not have to be made to exact measurements.
The Drip Cap
- One of the most elegant finishing touches to window treatments is a beautiful scarf.
- Window scarves can be hung over draperies, curtains, blinds or shades to add a note of sophistication.
- Perhaps the easiest window treatment to hang, scarves are a good choice for do-it-yourself enthusiasts.
- Add 18 to 30 inches if you are planning to loop the scarf around the curtain rod or drop it down in the center.
Check out this related video from Homesteady on Youtube.
References
Writer Bio
Wendy Hughes owns a successful small insurance business in California and specializes in employee benefits for small businesses. Although she majored in Combined Social Sciences at University of California, Santa Barbara, her true love is writing. Until recently, her writing focused on website content for BBSinternet.com.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
- Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
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