When it comes to finishing a room, the details make the difference — and one of the most powerful finishing touches you can add to your windows is a handmade valance. At Window Covering Gallery, we specialize in Handmade Valances in Colorado, crafted right here in Colorado Springs with custom attention to every inch. But one of the most common questions we hear from our clients is: What’s the right length and size for my valances?
We’re here to break that down and help you make confident decisions for your space. Whether you’re layering valances over shades or using them as a standalone statement, getting the size right is essential to achieving a balanced, elegant look. And the good news is — you don’t have to guess. We come to your home, take professional measurements, and create a valance that fits your windows perfectly.
Here’s what to consider when choosing the right size and length for your handmade valances.
First: Understand What a Valance Does
A valance is a decorative top treatment that adds style and softness to a window. It can:
- Conceal hardware (like shade or blind tops)
- Add color, texture, and personality to the room
- Visually raise or lower the height of the window
- Layer beautifully over other window coverings
Because it plays such a key design role, sizing matters. A valance that’s too small can look skimpy or underwhelming, while one that’s too long or wide can overwhelm the window or block too much light.
The Golden Rule: Custom Fit Every Time
We don’t believe in guesswork or one-size-fits-all. That’s why every one of our Handmade Valances in Colorado is crafted to exact window dimensions. We send a designer to your home who will:
- Evaluate the window’s width, height, and depth
- Take into account existing treatments (shades, blinds, shutters)
- Recommend fabric types based on your light needs
- Show you swatches, ideas, and styles in person
By tailoring every detail, you get a fit that looks intentional — never generic.
How to Choose the Right Length
The length (or drop) of your valance affects both appearance and function. Here’s how we help you decide:
1. Standard Length Guidelines
Most valances fall between 12 to 20 inches long, depending on:
- Ceiling height
- Window height
- Whether it’s layered or standalone
If your ceilings are tall or your windows are large, we’ll often recommend a longer drop (closer to 18–20 inches) for balance. In smaller rooms with standard 8-foot ceilings, 12–16 inches may be ideal.
2. Functional Considerations
Are we layering the valance over functional blinds or shades? Then we ensure the length doesn’t interfere with operation. Alta’s sleek shade systems work beautifully under our custom valances because of their compact headrails — but we still size carefully to ensure clearance.
3. Visual Goals
Want to make a window appear taller? We might mount the valance a few inches above the frame, which means we’ll adjust the length accordingly. It’s all about scale — and we bring that designer’s eye to your home during the consultation.
How to Choose the Right Width
The width of your handmade valance is just as important — and we never leave it to chance. Here’s how we approach it:
1. Exact Window Frame Measurement
We start by measuring the window width across the top frame. From there, we determine if the valance will:
- Sit inside the frame (more tailored and modern)
- Sit outside the frame and extend beyond the molding (more traditional or dramatic)
Each choice creates a different effect, and we’ll walk you through what works best in your space.
2. Style of Valance
Different valance styles require different widths. For example:
- Flat or box pleat valances should be very close to the window’s width.
- Swag or gathered styles often need additional width for fullness and flow.
We account for this automatically in our designs. If a gathered valance is chosen, we build in the extra width to ensure it drapes properly.
3. Layering Considerations
If we’re designing a valance to complement shades or drapes, we make sure the width works with those elements. For example, we might recommend a wider valance to frame a fabric roman shade or a narrower fit over a compact roller.
Special Window Shapes? No Problem
Do you have arched, bay, or unusually sized windows? We handle those all the time. Our Handmade Valances in Colorado can be designed to suit almost any shape or space. In fact, custom valances are one of the best ways to finish off a unique window that store-bought options just can’t accommodate.
We’ve built valances for:
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Tall stairwell windows
- Small bathroom windows
- French doors and transoms
And because everything is made locally, turnaround time is faster and adjustments are easy.
Why Our Handmade Valances Are Different
Let’s be honest — many window valances on the market are mass-produced and flimsy. Our valances are different. They’re:
- Handcrafted here in Colorado Springs
- Designed by our owner, Nicole Hammond
- Built from quality fabrics and lining options you choose
- Sized to your exact window measurements
- Installed by professionals — no DIY necessary
We design them to last, and to look just as good years from now as they do on install day. And yes — we even clean them. Our mobile drapery cleaning service can maintain your valances right where they hang.
Common Valance Styles We Offer
Some of the most popular valance styles we design and install include:
- Box pleat valances – Clean and structured
- Swag valances – Elegant and flowing
- Cornices – Upholstered boards for a modern edge
- Rod pocket valances – Casual and classic
- Tailored valances – Sleek and contemporary
Each of these can be customized with trims, contrast fabrics, and even blackout lining if needed.
Our Process Makes It Simple
Here’s how it works:
- You schedule a free in-home consultation.
- We come to your space with fabric books, Alta product samples, and design inspiration.
- We take exact measurements and talk through your goals and budget.
- You get a quote on the spot.
- We custom-build your handmade valance right here in Colorado Springs.
- Our professional team installs it — no measuring tapes, ladders, or tools needed from you.
Let’s Design Your Perfect Valance
If you’re ready to add a beautiful, custom-fitted finishing touch to your home, we’re ready to help. Our Handmade Valances in Colorado aren’t just beautiful — they’re made to fit, made to last, and made to work with your lifestyle.
Don’t waste time hunting through big-box stores or settling for pre-made options. Call us at 719-548-1020 or request an in-home appointment, and we’ll bring everything to you.
