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If you're a person who loves to keep the window open so that you have the opportunity to gaze about as you wish, then you certainly don't want to obstruct that view. For this person, a window valance is a perfect choice. You have a wide array of styles to choose from when finding that perfect valance. If you wish to have the view always, night and day, without interruption, you can use the valance alone, or else couple it with other window dressings such as curtains, drapes, blinds, shutters.

You can choose from both casual and formal window valances when conducting your interior design project. You can use a heavy tapestry type fabric or an airy light cotton type of material. If you like the free flowing look that's less informal you can go that route, or else one that is more stiff and shaped to a form fit.

The balloon valance looks like'well, a balloon. The way it is hung on the rod and pinched into sections make each section balloon out because of the way it is bundle up. The top is usually ruffled a bit. The areas of the valance that are puffy are usually stuffed with a tissue or old crumpled newspaper for some thicker fabrics where it won't show through. For this style it's recommended to use a lighter weight cotton material as well as something solid or with patterns and stripes.

Another type of valance is the swag valance. The Swag Valance often is used with a lightweight fabric, but sometimes can work with a heavier type of fabric. This type of valance can either be short extend to the floor and pooled into a little pile. The swag is hoisted up by decorative brackets on either side, as the fabric is folded accordion style width ways, and then draped back across the brackets. If your window is wider you may have to support the center with a discreet bracket or pin because of the weight creating a swoop.

You may like the look of the pleated valance. This is usually made up of a heavier type of fabric that will hold it's shaped when formed. The fabric must be cut carefully so that each section between the pleated folds is equal in size. You may not want to tackle this type of style on your own, as you may want to leave this one up to a professional interior decorator or seamstress with experience. This type of valance is hung using a frame make from two by four board as well as an L bracket to create a type of shelf at the top of the window. You'll then staple the fabric the shaped board, and then hang the board onto the brackets.

No matter what your experience level, just about anyone can create a window valance. Be sure to remember that window treatments should not be the focal point of the room but simply there to accent.