What kind of valance are you making? Most do not require any pattern as they are usually just rectangles sewn together. For a 91" window I would use 4 widths of 54" fabric seamed together. This would give you slightly more than 2 times fullness. A good site for directions is www.alternative-windows.com. Also all of the Singer Sewing for the Home books as well as the Sunset Curtains, Draperies, and Shades are excellent. I own them, but they are also available at my library.

I think that before we can really offer sound advice we need to know more about the style of valence you are talking about. clt3's suggestion is great if all you are planning is a simple gathered valence, but when you say "custom" I envision something a bit more complicated than that. Can you give us the pattern maker and and number so we can take a look at it?

Annie

That is another problem...I don't have a pattern. I would like to duplicate the custom valance we have (see pic), which was made for a window only 52 inches wide. Do you think that is too much to tackle for a newbie? Thanks to both of you for responding.

{{!gwi}}

{{!gwi}}

No, I think this looks pretty simple. Check out the Butterick pattern via the link below, the lower left valance is very similar to what you are after and I think could serve as a starting point for you.

Annie

Here is a link that might be useful: valance

I agree, the actual sewing is not hard. Try this pattern - it includes directions for making it wider. http://www.patemeadows.com/claudine.htm

Thanks for all your help!

Come visit us at the link below with your questions.

Here is a link that might be useful: Nouveau Stitch Home Dec Sewing Forum

Hi, I may be too late, but if you haven't started, do try to make a trial valance using maybe an old bed sheet before you cut into expensive material. Pattern directions can be confusing, and if you make a trial valance, you will also know how to go about doing it with the good material. Any mistakes can be noted and fixed before you start on the real thing.