MAKING PELMETS (VALANCES) the pelmet (valance). Stitch in place, double stitching across the ends. Turn up the hem allowance across the lower edge of the pelmet (valance) and slipstitch in place over the lower edge of the lining. Draw up the heading tape and hang the pelmet (valance) with hooks and screw eyes. For a fringed edge, topstitch bullion fringe along the lower edge. For a frilled edge, after attaching heading tape, stitch the frill to the lower edge of the curtain, with right sides facing and raw edges matching, leaving scam allowances free. Press the frill away from the pelmet (valance), then slipstitch the folded lower edge of the lining to the wrong side of the frill to enclose all raw edges. For a bound edge, make up the pelmet (valance) so that the lower edge of the lining, interlining and main fabric all match.
Bind the edge, using bias-cut binding if the edge is curved.
WINDOW DRESSING SOPHISTICATED HEADINGS
Traditionally, lavish draperies were only used in great houses. They signaled wealth and status for the owner; decoratively they gave presence and visual balance to the lofty height of the window frames. The proportions of a window dressing in relation to the size of a room are critical; dramatic drapes in the context of tall rooms and high windows will always look sumptuous, but in a small room with restrictions on scale, window schemes should be chosen with care. Keep to restrained, classical lines that will not be overwhelming.
Damasks and silks are ideal fabrics for a formal interior. Tall windows can take a commanding treatment such as swags and tails, or perhaps a festooned heading, full and rich with cascading tails laden with trimmings. A high profile window dressing like this should be used in a context where the color scheme, furniture and accessories are equal to the opulence it provides. But swags and tails can be given a simpler look when the pleating on the swag is restrained rather than generous, the fabric has the cool perfection of heavyweight chintz, and the tails are pressed flat to reveal pleats and lining in geometric progression.
Opulent window treatments can be surprisingly simple to achieve but should be used boldly for a dramatic effect. Dress curtains can act as an ornate facade with inner draw curtains or blinds to provide privacy. Double curtains create a sophisticated effect in tones of the same color or complementary patterns. Hang them together for the magnified effect of luxurious fabric or drape them asymmetrically with tie-backs. Curtains with a long drop can be caught twice as they fall.
Or a single cord set high can reef up curtains in a manner reminiscent of eighteenth-century curtain designs. These schemes are ideal for semi-circular windows, or where curtains cannot be drawn. Even the most spectacular designs are contrived from a standard repertoire of swags and tails, pelmets (valances) and draped headings. The tassels pick strongest co curtain strip. Ground rules have been mastered; most window dressings can be adapted to suit your own personal style. Swags, pelmets (valances) and lambrequins all have the panache to stand alone without curtains, and add a touch of theatre to a window in a hall or landing.
A stylish heading can also set the mood of the room itself – a Gothic heading or Neo-classical swag will establish a particular ambience. Swags and tails lend authority to imposing windows.