Measuring and Sewing

• 1). Measure the width of the curtain rod plus its returns. The returns are where the valance curves at the end of the rod, extending to the wall. Multiply the measurement by 2 1/2. This gives you extra fabric for making the full folds after the valance is on the rod. If you prefer less fullness, multiply the measurement by 2. Add 6 inches to the total to allow for the panel's side hems.
  
  
• 2). Gauge the finished length of the cloud valance, measuring from the bottom of the rod to the point where you want the lower edge of the valance to end. Add 20 more inches to this measurement -- 11 inches to allow for the pouf gather, 6 inches to make the rod pocket and 3 inches for the bottom hem allowances.
  
  
• 3). Calculate your measurement totals. Cut the fabric accordingly.
  
  
• 4). Turn the material with the front side to the work table, or right side down. Create the 1 1/2-inch side hems first. From the raw edge of the fabric, fold in 1 1/2 inches and press with the iron. Fold in 1 1/2 inches again. Press the fabric and pin in place.
  
  
• 5). Sew the hem, starting the seam from the top of the fabric with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Move over from the outer edge of the folded hem to the inside about 1 1/4 inches and begin sewing from there. This will give you a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
  
  
• 6). Turn the material under to form the bottom hem, using the same process as you used to make the side hems.
  
  
• 7). Create the rod pocket. At the top of the valance, fold the fabric under 3 inches to the wrong side and press. Fold over another 3 inches to form a double-fold hem and press. Sew in place, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
  
  

Creating the Pouf

• 1). Tack the plastic rings to the inside of the valance in rows. Start 1/4 inch from the lower edge of the valance and 1 inch from each outer edge. Place a ring on each side of the valance. Place three rings about 6 inches apart vertically to form the row.
  
  
• 2). Measure and mark the fabric to place the inner rows of rings. Space the inner tows equally from each outer row. Sew them in place. The finished ring grid should be four rows across and three rows down.
  
  
• 3). Thread the shade cord vertically through all three rings in each row. Tie the cord and cut off the excess. Repeat this process for all four rows. This gathers the fabric to form the pouf in the cloud valance.