(Do you know what your home decorating style is? Take this simple quiz and find out now!) What is your Interior Decorating Style?

All that said, there are a few simple but important points to consider when thinking about valance window treatments:

First, determine your budget. If you are a reader of this site, you already know that I talk about establishing an overall budget for just about every project. Window treatments are no exception to this recommendation.

Determining your budget will steer you in the right 'shopping' direction and minimize the stress and disappointment of find the perfect window valances that are about 10 times more than your budget will allow!

Next, determine the style of valance that you want. Your window treatments should be consistent with the overall style of the space.

You might use a valance to complete the look of side panels at the window.

For example, if you have outfitted your living room contemporary style, you probably won't put lace valances at the windows...save those for your country, shabby chic or cottage style decor.

The third and very important step in planning your valance window treatments is to measure the width and length of the windows.

It doesn't matter if you use a decorative rod, standard rod, tension rod inside the window frame, etc....you need to know how to shop and purchase the correct size of rod as well as valance.

Your fourth consideration is the type of fabric (or maybe something other than fabric) you will use for this space.

Here are some ideas to consider:

• A sheer or lace fabric provides a soft, simple understated look
• You may want to select the same fabric for your valance window treatment that is used elsewhere in the room, such as on pillows or a chair.
• A deep set window offers the option of using a tension rod and placing the valance inside of the window trim.

  This can be a great look if you have several windows side by side (or you don't want to put holes in the walls and hang rods)

• Traditional decor that is on the formal side can handle heavier fabrics with swags
• Cornice boards, either natural wood or covered in fabric, work well in traditional decor settings.
• Consider unique or decorative rods for your valances as a focal point in the room.
• A double rod (one at the top of the valance and one at the bottom) is a creative method of utilizing a valance. If the rods are hung exactly the same, you will create a sleek look that can work well in a contemporary setting - just measure the length carefully!

  Or, use a rod at the bottom of the valance that protrudes at least two inches more from the wall than the rod at the top, slide the top and bottom of the valance through these rods. You will create a fun, casual and interesting look at your window, like a small canopy. Try this at a window above the kitchen sink...it looks great.

• Use unconventional materials for a valance. I have used overlapped vintage hankies, a curtain panel turned 'sideways', a tablecloth, etc. and they were great looks! Don't assume that you have to make or buy a traditional valance.

Have fun!