Decorate Now custom drapery patterns, curtain patterns, and valance patterns.



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Frequently Asked Questions:

Annalisa Valance: 

Q:  Why does the top valance have folds?
A:  The folds serve several purposes.  They keep the lining from peeking, keep the cording neat at the fold lines, allow you to invisibly tack the returns to the gussets under the folds, and mimic the soft folds of the gussets, creating a better overall look. 

Magnolia House Valance:

Q:  I want to divide the large center section into smaller sections.  Is this possible?
A:  It isn't recommended.  To get an odd number of sections, the center piece would be divided up into almost the same size pieces as the side sections.  Because the side pieces would be so close in size to the center pieces, the valance will look a bit odd.  If you want multiple sections, use pieces A or G and repeat those pieces across the width of the window, omitting the center section.  The Tulip Lane valance might be a better option, as it is designed to be altered in this way.  Additionally, the Tulip Lane Valance comes with 3 different shaped bottom edges.   The Magnolia House Valance is designed to have--and looks best with-- 3 sections spanning the width of the window. 

Q:  Can the Magnolia House Valance be used on a bay window?
A:  Yes.  Each of the 3 main pattern pieces (the face fabric) will need to be sized to fit each bay window.  The finished valance will look like this:











Josephine Victory Valance:

Q:  What does "railroading fabric" or "railroaded fabric" mean?
A:   Railroading fabric is when you turn the fabric lengthwise prior to cutting out the pattern pieces. Fabrics can be railroaded if they are solids or if they have a non-directional print.  See page 3 of your instructions for a diagram of how the pattern pieces look laid out on a railroaded piece of fabric.

Q:  The cascades flare at the bottom corners.  How can I prevent this?
A:  Try leaving the contrast cascade end uncut.  Then pin together the cut face fabric and the uncut contrast.  Stitch.  Trim off excess face fabric.  The contrast fabric will help stabilize the face fabric cut bias edges, keeping them from stretching so much when the seam is sewn.


Mock Roman Shade Collection:

Q:  Can I cut the board smaller than the shade width?
A:  Yes, in most cases you can cut the board 1/2 inch smaller than the finished width of the shade.  This keeps the board ends from peeking out on outside mounts, hides returns if separate returns are added, and gives mounting ease on inside mounts.


Regency Empire Valance:

Q:  I'm in the middle of makng the valance, and the end horns/pleats look like they hang higher than the center horn/pleats.  Is this correct?
A:  Yes.  This valance is made very differently than most valances.  Follow the directions in the pattern, and the middle horns will be pulled up in the next few steps.  This valance is reallly created by an illusion--so it is important to follow the pattern steps carefully. 

Q:  I have a light gap next to my swag.  How can I keep this from happening?
A:  Lift up the swag and insert cording or scraps of lining into the space between the swag lining and the board.  This lifts up the swag and fills up the space.   The gap is caused by the varying fabric thicknesses across the board--so try to have as little extra bulk as possible on top of th mounting board before attaching the crown board.

Q:  My first layer of cording is uneven and waving.  Help?
A:  Try stapling the cording to the bottom of the crown board (after it is covered with fabric, but before it is attached to the mounting board).  This will eliminate the waves.   (This tip is also included in the updated pattern instructions.)

Q:  I can't quite get the swag and horn seam dots to line up.
A:  Because both pieces are cut on a slant, this can happen as one piece stretches a bit more than the other.  Unless the seam is horribly off, then any differences will be hidden in the next step where the horn top is sitched.   




Why so few questions? 
Because we strive to have the most complete instructions for professional patterns.  The lack of questions being submitted is a testimonial to how easy the pattern instructions are to understand. 

We will continue to add to the FAQ page as questions are submitted. 
Thank you for using Decorate Now Patterns.