How to Make a Fishtail Valance
Measure your windows from the outside of the trim on one side to the outside of the trim on the other side., Decide how long you want your valances to be., Add A + B + B. , Add an additional two inches (5 cm) to the length to reach your "final"...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Measure your windows from the outside of the trim on one side to the outside of the trim on the other side.
(Measurement "A") , (Measurement "B") ,, (Measurement "C"), Cut straight across the squared end.
You can use a carpenter's square, T-square or similar tool to help with this.,,,,, Fold your fabric in half, short end touching short end.
Add 10 inches (25 cm) to your window width measurement above (Measurement A) and divide in half to get a length we'll call Measurement D.
Transfer measurement D to your folded material.
Measure and mark its length FROM THE CENTER mark.
Place two pins to mark Measurement D's distance from the center mark in each direction.
You now have your angle point marked. ,, Your material should be a longish trapezoid at this point. ,,,, You should end up with a thick, long, narrow bunch of pleated fabric. ,,,, -
Step 2: Decide how long you want your valances to be.
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Step 3: Add A + B + B.
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Step 4: Add an additional two inches (5 cm) to the length to reach your "final" length of material needed for the valance.
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Step 5: Square the ends of your fabric.
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Step 6: Transfer Measurement C to your fabric.
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Step 7: Cut the second end square also.
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Step 8: Hem the selvedge edges to hide the selvedge.
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Step 9: Hem the two short ends.
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Step 10: Find and mark your folded angle using the following steps.
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Step 11: Fold the fabric at the angle point
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Step 12: pulling the corner of the fabric over until the crease of the fold runs from the angle point to the opposite corner.
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Step 13: Sew/hem the fabric edges down.
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Step 14: Sew or glue any desired edge trim to the three shortest sides of your trapezoid.
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Step 15: Install your hanging knobs or hooks at the top corners of your window opening at this point.
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Step 16: Lay your fabric
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Step 17: "right side" or pattern side up on a flat surface.
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Step 18: Pleat the material
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Step 19: starting from the narrowest long side (top) of the trapezoid.
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Step 20: Hang your pleated fabric over the two knobs/hooks with the narrowest edge facing down and the longest edge against the wall.
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Step 21: Allow the pleated fabric to sag slightly in the center.
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Step 22: Pull the back (longest) edge of the fabric taut against the wall and thumbtack it into place.
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Step 23: Tweak the pleats into a pleasing symmetry and you're done!
Detailed Guide
(Measurement "A") , (Measurement "B") ,, (Measurement "C"), Cut straight across the squared end.
You can use a carpenter's square, T-square or similar tool to help with this.,,,,, Fold your fabric in half, short end touching short end.
Add 10 inches (25 cm) to your window width measurement above (Measurement A) and divide in half to get a length we'll call Measurement D.
Transfer measurement D to your folded material.
Measure and mark its length FROM THE CENTER mark.
Place two pins to mark Measurement D's distance from the center mark in each direction.
You now have your angle point marked. ,, Your material should be a longish trapezoid at this point. ,,,, You should end up with a thick, long, narrow bunch of pleated fabric. ,,,,
About the Author
Brittany Diaz
Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in practical skills and beyond.
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