About This Window Treatment
The arched trumpet valance is many of our arch shaped window treatments. The valance is unique but simple at the same time. Its flat design allows this valance to either be modern or traditional, depending on the fabrics chosen.
What makes this valance truly unique are the custom-designed trumpets that flank each side of the valance. It’s a great way to introduce a secondary fabric to a window treatment without having to use excessive amounts to fabrics.
Each valance is fully lined with premium white lining. Interlining is optional. Trims are also optional but highly recommended. Not only are they a great addition, but they’re also a great way to draw the eye to the beautiful bottom shape of this window treatment. If you choose a fabric with large cameo prints, they will be centered onto each valance whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many arched sections will my valance have?
It depends on the width chosen. General guidelines are as follows, but may be changed to adjust for unique fabric requirements:
- 35 to 48 inches wide – one arch
- 64 to 90 inches wide – two arches
- 92 to 132 inches wide – three arches
Can I order a valance width that I don’t see as an option?
You may request a special order for valances wider than 132 inches. Valances that are less than 35 wide or between 49 and 63 inches are unavailable because of limitations that are specific to the custom pattern design.
How do I design the trumpets?
The same main fabric chosen for the flat section will be used for the outside of the trumpets. You may select an accent fabric to line the trumpet. Do not select the main fabric again for this section. You may select coordinating small-scale fabrics (gingham checks, solids, stripes, etc.) for the inside of the trumpet. We recommend solid colors to make the trumpets stand out the most.
Can you tell me what kind of curtain hardware I need for this window treatment?
You’ll need a standard drapery pole with some decorative finials on each side. The rod simply slides through the 3-inch rod pocket of the valance. We recommend a drapery pole with a 1 3/8-inch diameter. There are drapery poles with a 1-inch diameter, which should work just fine. However, we don’t recommend curtain rods with diameters that are any smaller than this. You’ll have a lot of space left in your rod pocket, and quite frankly, a custom valance needs hardware that matches its quality.
Which length should I choose?
The general rule is that the width of a valance needs to be in proportion to its length. For example, a 36-inch wide valance works great at a 19-inch length, while perhaps a 48-inch wide valance may keep its arched shape better if the 23-inch length is chosen. The proportion of the valance in your room also plays a role. Large rooms with tall ceilings may do better with longer valance lengths. Adding trim will also add to the overall length of the valance, which is another factor to consider. Lastly, if you choose a fabric with large, prominent patterns that need to be centered, we recommend the 21-inch length at least.
NOTE: This valance may be installed onto an adjacent block of windows on the same wall. If this is the case, we recommend that you choose the same length to stay consistent, no matter what the individual widths of the windows are.
I have three windows that are side by side. Should I buy three single wide valances or just one triple wide valance?
It depends. Typically, if there is a strip of wall space between each window that’s no wider than 3 inches, then one continuous, triple wide valance will be a good fit. Otherwise, hang separate curtain rods and separate single arch valances on each window section.
How do I place my custom order?
Simply make your selections above step by step. Each time you make a selection or change you’ll notice that the price will update in real time. Once you’re satisfied with all your custom selections, simply click to add to cart. Then proceed to checkout.
How long does it take to ship this valance? Will I be updated?
Depending on the size of your order and whether the fabric is in stock, you could receive your valance in as early as 2 to 3 weeks. However, for most of our customers, the normal turnaround time is about 3 to 5 weeks. We rarely see a 6-week turnaround, but it does happen with some of our larger orders.
We get busier right before the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays due to higher demand. Please plan accordingly.
And yes, we understand this is an important purchase for most of our customers. We take ample measures to update our customers via email at least three to four times during the process.
Where’s my custom order produced?
Each of our orders is created in our Atlanta, GA workroom.
Do I have to add trim to the arched bottom hem?
It’s optional, so you can simply skip it. And if you’ve added it by mistake or changed your mind, you can always delete it in the shopping cart.
I may want trim. Should I add it?
The valance on its own is very simple, so adding trim is a great way to make it more detailed and heavier. Also note that adding a trim that’s in high contrast to the fabric (for example, adding bright red trim on a white fabric) will draw the eye to the arched bottom hem of this valance and amplify the valance as a focal point in your room.
Can I gather this valance?
This valance has a flat and clean pattern. It is not intended to be gathered. Please make sure to follow the measuring instructions we have provided for your convenience.
Should I choose interlining?
For this style, most of our customers don’t choose interlining. However, if you choose a faux silk or real silk fabric, a fabric with a light-colored background, or if your room gets a lot of sunlight, then interlining is a smart choice.
Can I install this valance on a continental rod?
No – this valance does not have a return on either side. It’s intended for a rich drapery pole with finials.
Can I layer this valance over a Roman shade?
Absolutely. A window with both a valance and Roman shade can look very heavy if it isn’t balanced by heavy furniture or other elements of high scale in the room. Luckily, one solution is to choose a simple valance. The lightness and simplicity of this valance is a great complement to a Roman shade.
We recommend installing the valance as high as possible to add height and expose more of your Roman shade. Do not make the valance too wide when measuring – this is a common mistake we see when valances are paired with inside-mounted treatments like shades and blinds. You want to cover your window just enough. See below for instructions.
Can I send you my own fabric if I don’t see one that I like, or need to match the valance to the rest of my room?
Yes, you can. You don’t need to wait around for us to give you a custom quote. If you wish to send in your own materials and pay for interlining and labor only, simply select “Customer’s Own Fabric” under fabrics and continue making your other custom selections. Once you complete the last step of the custom design above, you will immediately see the price displayed at the bottom. However, we ask that you please contact us first before actually sending in the fabric. We must pre-approve your selections first, so we may require a fabric swatch or online link to the fabric that you plan to use.
Suggested Measuring Instructions
Standard Instructions
Measure your window width at the widest part. If your window is framed in wooden or any other molding, make sure to include it in your measurement as well. Add 2 to 3 1/2 total inches to this measurement.
DESIGNER TIP: If you will install draperies underneath this valance, we recommend that you add 10 to 30 inches to your window measurement, if space permits, to make your window appear larger.
Special Instructions for Bay, Bow and Corner Windows
This valance is meant to be installed as an outside mount on bay, bow, or corner windows. This valance does not bend across angled walls, so each section will require its own individual valance. Make sure that there is enough space between each window section. We recommend at least 5 inches of space between each window section for bay and bow windows and at least 7 inches of space between corner windows (if no draperies are installed underneath valance). You may need to join adjacent decorative poles with a hinged elbow or any other drapery corner connector to save space.
If your window sections are continuous and don’t have the required wall space in between, the cuff top valance with the medallion installation chosen as an option is our best solution.
Special Instructions for Arched and Palladium Windows
Follow standard measuring instructions above. Valance is installed at the base of the arch.
Special Instructions for Patio Doors
The arched valance is not intended as an inside mount for patio doors or French doors. One of our gallery sample photos (the black and gold valance) is modeled on a French door, but note that the customer who bought this valance uses her French door only for decorative, not functional purposes.
Special Instructions for Sliding Glass Doors
Follow the standard instructions to measure. It’s advisable to install this valance higher up on the wall to allow for high traffic areas to function. Make sure that the highest point of the arch does not expose the top of your window. We highly recommend selecting no trim to save on space, if necessary.