DIY Gathered Tab Top Kids Valance
This kids valance is sometimes referred to as a Savannah valance, or gathered tab valance. There are a few patterns out there for making this with different levels of difficulty.
You can get a similar custom window treatment without a pattern.
1. Cut and piece your fabric as needed to equal about 2 times the width of your window. You will also need lining for this piece. I recommend a contrast lining because it does peak out a little bit, but you can use regular drapery lining as preferred.
You can make this piece straight, or shaped on the bottom like in the drawing. I recommend making it straight your first time, unless you are making a practice piece out of scraps. The reason is this . . . note in the drawing that the shaped sections are spaced evenly with the tabs.
This isn't real easy to achieve and get the valance to end up the width and length you need. Of course the easiest way to make custom window treatments is to just purchase a pattern.
2. Make tabs that will finish roughly 4 inches wide by 11 inches long leaving one end open. You'll see in the drawing that I tapered the ends on the front to give it a little more style. The tabs will be gathered and top stitched or hand sewn in place.
These tabs are enclosed between the front and the lining, with the tapered end left free, but first pin them and hang on your pole to be sure you like how they drape and the length. Your end tabs should be roughly 6-8" from each end.
This makes a nice little jabot effect as shown. Then evenly space the rest of the tabs in your kids valance in between the two end tabs.
The tabs in the drawing are approximately 16" from center of one tab to center of next tab, when hung on the rod. This distance is larger when it is laying out flat.
Just keep in mind that the wider the space between tabs, the more scoop you will have on the top of your tab top valance, and the more wall will show (or maybe top of your window if you're not careful).
3. Pin your tabs in place to the right side of the fabric, then pin the lining right side to right side of fabric. Sew all around leaving about 6" opening for turning on one of the ends. Be careful to keep the loose ends of the tabs free.
4. Hand stitch opening closed. Carefully press your tab top valance. Bring the loose ends of the tabs to the front and pin in place to achieve the desired length and so they will go on your rod or pole. Topstitch with machine, or sew by hand in place.
Then either gather by hand as shown, or tie with decorative ribbon or cording to gather the tabs. How about using baby shoe laces?
Optional: For this custom kids valance you can sew or glue fringe or trim to the bottom of valance. You might want to sew a button on the tab, or sew or glue some other decorative treatment to the tab, like a silk flower,toy or baby shoe.
If you have trouble finding a pattern for this type of tab top kids valance, let me know. I'll be happy to help you.
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