How Much Fabric for a Valance?
Valances use significantly less fabric than full-length curtains because they only cover the top 12-18 inches of a window. The calculation is simpler but still requires accounting for fullness and fabric width.
Valance Fabric Formula:
Widths needed = (Window Width × 1.5 to 2× fullness) ÷ Fabric Width (round up)
Total yards = (Valance Drop + Hem + Header) × Widths ÷ 36 × (1 + Waste%)
Widths needed = (Window Width × 1.5 to 2× fullness) ÷ Fabric Width (round up)
Total yards = (Valance Drop + Hem + Header) × Widths ÷ 36 × (1 + Waste%)
Valance Yardage Chart (54" Fabric)
Standard valance drop: 14-18". Fullness: 1.5x for flat, 2x for gathered. 4" hem + 3" header.
| Window Width | Valance Drop | Fullness | Widths | Yardage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24" (small) | 14" | 1.5x | 1 | 0.5 yd |
| 36" (standard) | 14" | 1.5x | 1 | 0.5 yd |
| 48" (wide) | 16" | 2x | 2 | 1.0 yd |
| 60" (bay section) | 16" | 2x | 2 | 1.25 yd |
| 72" (patio door) | 18" | 2x | 2 | 1.5 yd |
Types of Valances and Their Yardage
| Valance Type | Typical Drop | Yardage (36" window) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scalloped valance | 12-14" | 0.5 yd | Simple curved bottom edge |
| Box-pleat valance | 14-16" | 0.75 yd | Needs extra for pleats |
| Swag valance | 18-24" | 1.0 yd | Draped fabric needs more length |
| Ascot valance | 12-14" | 0.75 yd | Pointed center, shorter sides |
| Balloon valance | 16-20" | 1.5 yd | Puffed fabric, 2.5x fullness |