Cutting and draping

by John W. Stephenson

A valance of this kind is provided with lambrequin hooks on the wrong side to hook into the curtain rings, and can be put upon the same rings with the lace curtains or on extra rings, as you desire. The hooks should be placed to support it at the points where will be the greatest weight—one on each side of the tail, one at the top of each pipe, and about every six inches between. The tip of the pipe is sewn over the top like the tails and the bottom is fastened securely at the end of the scallop. A nice effect is given to the pipe by suspending a large pair of tassels from its interior, falling about six to twelve inches from its base, according to size.

GOTHIC.

Figure [12] is a similar treatment, with the lower third composed of a shirred skirt; the buckram form is made first and covered, and the skirt is sewn to the under side before the lining is put on. In addition to the fringe at the bottom of the skirt this style is further embellished with an edging or lace around each scallop and an appliqué ornament centreing each scallop. The top edge is sometimes finished as illustrated with a heavy silk cord with knots or double loops at the prominent points.

Figure [13] is a combination of pelmet and overdrapery, used where the decoration is desired to be very deep without the appearance of excessive weight. The flat back or pelmet is made perfectly straight and flat, trimmed with a gimp or galloon, and appliquéd, the long end being provided with a deep fringe. The overdrapery is cut as per rule for irregular festoons, and while it has the appearance of passing over and down behind the pelmet, it is joined behind just out of sight, using no more goods than is necessary for the appearance on the face side. This can be made very effective by using a plain material for the pelmet covering and a striped or figured fabric for the overdrapery. It can be used for dining-rooms, libraries and offices where the windows are high and not very wide. Repeated from the left side with double tail in centre it is a nice treatment for a double or mullioned window.

Figure [14] illustrates another style and the method of applying it to a double window. The top is further embellished with a garniture of heavy silk cords and tassels, which, on very deep valances, is sometimes replaced with a light-weight silk festoon drapery in harmonizing shades.

A bow or bay window is treated in like manner by suspending a double tail between each window.

To make up flat valances lay the cut out buckram form upon the goods with which it is to be covered and cut the goods an inch larger all around.

If there is a pattern that is conspicuous, plan it so that it will centre in each scallop, joining the goods if necessary where the pipes will conceal the seams. Pin the goods to the buckram to prevent from slipping and draw the edges over and baste them to the back of the buckram. This must be done smoothly and without puckering.