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Custom Fabric Window Valances and Cornices for the Home
Custom Valances & Window Cornices | Fabric & Wood Options
Looking to add that finishing touch to your windows? Custom valances and window cornices transform ordinary window treatments into something special. They're the detail that pulls a room together, hiding hardware while adding architectural interest.
We've spent over 25 years helping homeowners find the perfect toppers for their windows. Here's what you need to know about valances and cornices.
Understanding Valances vs. Cornices
Custom window valances and cornices both dress up the top of your windows, but they're built differently.
Fabric Valances
Fabric valances feature soft, flowing material that adds texture and warmth. They're typically mounted on a board or hung from decorative hardware. The fabric drapes naturally, creating gentle folds and movement.
Our custom fabric valances come in hundreds of colors and patterns, from subtle neutrals to bold statement prints. Choose from the same premium fabrics we use for our Blindsgalore Designer Custom Drapery, ensuring perfect coordination across your window treatments.
Cornice Boards
Fabric cornice boards combine structure with style. A wooden frame wrapped in fabric creates clean, architectural lines. The rigid construction provides a more formal, tailored appearance than soft valances.
Window cornices work beautifully in traditional and transitional spaces. They add visual weight to windows, making them appear larger and more substantial. The structured look suits formal living rooms, dining rooms, and master bedrooms.
Wood Valances
Wood valances for windows bring natural warmth and craftsmanship to your space. Available in stain-grade or paint-grade woods, they can be finished to match your trim or create contrast.
Wood cornices suit craftsman, traditional, and rustic interiors. The natural material adds texture and depth that fabric alone can't achieve. Pair them with wood blinds or shutters for a cohesive, organic look.
Styles and Design Options
Fabric Cornice Styles
Fabric window cornices come in various profiles and details:
Straight Cornices feature clean, simple lines. Perfect for modern and contemporary spaces where minimalism matters.
Shaped Cornices add curves, angles, or decorative cutouts. These work well in traditional rooms where architectural detail enhances the overall design.
Upholstered Cornices can include welting, nailhead trim, or contrasting fabrics for added visual interest. These details elevate the look from functional to designer-quality.
Valance Mounting Options
Custom valances for windows can be mounted several ways:
Board-Mounted Valances attach to a wooden board that mounts above your window. This creates a clean, tailored look with the fabric wrapping around the board's front and sides.
Rod-Mounted Valances hang from decorative hardware, similar to curtains. This style works well when you want the hardware to be part of the design.
Choosing the Right Size
Cornice window treatments need proper proportions to look right. Here's how to size them:
Width
Measure your window width and add 4 to 8 inches on each side. This ensures the cornice or valance extends beyond the window frame, creating a more substantial appearance and better light control.
If you're mounting over existing blinds or shades, ensure the valance clears the headrail with at least 2 inches of space.
Height
Cornices for windows typically measure 12 to 18 inches tall, depending on window height and ceiling clearance. Taller windows can handle taller cornices. Standard 8-foot ceilings usually work best with 12 to 16-inch cornices.
Valances can be shorter, typically 10 to 14 inches, since the soft fabric creates visual interest without needing as much height.
Projection
The cornice or valance needs to project far enough from the wall to clear any window treatments underneath. Measure the depth of your blinds or shades when fully raised, then add at least 2 inches for clearance.
Coordinating with Window Treatments
With Cellular Shades
Pair a cornice with our Blindsgalore Select Motorized Wand Cellular Shades for a polished, energy-efficient solution. The cornice hides the headrail while the cellular shades provide insulation and light control.
With Roller Shades
Combine a valance with Blindsgalore Envision Light Filtering Roller Shades or Blackout Roller Shades for a clean, modern look. The simple lines of roller shades complement both structured cornices and soft valances.
With Drapery
Layer a cornice over custom drapery for maximum elegance. This combination works beautifully in formal spaces, adding depth and luxury to your windows.
With Dual Sheer Shades
Top Boutique Serenity Light Filtering Dual Sheer Shades with a coordinating valance for a sophisticated, layered look. The sheer bands and fabric cornice create visual interest while maintaining light control.
Fabric Selection
Choose from hundreds of fabric options across multiple collections.
Linen Textures
Bring casual, organic appeal. These work well in relaxed, comfortable spaces where you want warmth without formality.
Subtle Patterns
Add visual interest without overwhelming. Small-scale geometrics, stripes, or tone-on-tone designs suit transitional spaces.
Bold Solids
Make a statement. Rich colors or dramatic neutrals work beautifully when you want the window treatment to be a focal point.
Designer Prints
Showcase your personal style. From traditional damasks to modern abstracts, these fabrics turn your windows into art.
You'll find some fabrics coordinate with our drapery collection, making it easy to create a cohesive look across multiple windows.
Installation
Most customers install their own custom valances for windows. You'll need basic tools: a drill, screwdriver, tape measure, and level. Installation typically takes about an hour.
Fabric cornice boards mount with brackets attached to the back of the cornice. Mark your mounting locations, ensuring they're level. Pre-drill holes, then secure the brackets to the wall or window frame.
Board-mounted valances install similarly, with the mounting board attaching directly to the wall above your window.
Our installation resources include detailed instructions for each product type. If you run into questions, our in-house experts are available by phone or text.
Measuring Your Windows
Accurate measurements ensure your window cornices fit properly.
Width
Measure the width you want to cover, typically extending 4 to 8 inches beyond the window frame on each side.
Height
Decide on your desired cornice or valance height, typically 12 to 18 inches for cornices and 10 to 14 inches for valances.
Projection
Measure how far the cornice needs to extend from the wall to clear any window treatments underneath, plus at least 2 inches.
Our measuring guides walk you through the process step by step. Order free samples first to see fabrics and colors in your space.
Maintenance and Care
Fabric window cornices and valances need minimal maintenance.
Dust regularly
with a microfiber cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Work from top to bottom. Do this weekly or as needed to prevent buildup.
Spot clean
with mild soap and water. Blot rather than rub. Some fabric valances can be removed and dry cleaned. Check care instructions for your specific fabric.
Wood care
Wood cornices can be dusted and wiped with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid excessive moisture, which can damage the finish.
Why Choose Blindsgalore
We're a family-owned business that's been making custom window treatments since 1998. Every product is built to your exact measurements, not cut down from stock sizes.
Order up to 15 free samples to see fabrics and colors in your actual space. Our design experts provide free consultations. No pressure, just honest advice from people who know window treatments inside and out.
Custom valances and cornices ship based on the specific product and options selected. Shipping is free across the continental U.S. Installation instructions come with every order, and our help center has videos and guides.
We back every custom order with a free 3-year warranty, with an option to upgrade to 5 years. Our guarantee covers exchanges for any reason within 30 days. Four windows per household. It's the best guarantee in the industry.
Ready to add the perfect finishing touch to your windows? Browse our collection, order samples, and talk to our team.
Valances & Cornices FAQ
Valances are made with fabric that drapes softly, while cornices feature a rigid wooden frame wrapped in fabric. Valances offer a softer, more casual look. Cornices provide structured, architectural lines. Both hide window treatment hardware and add a finished appearance to windows.
Yes, cornices work with cellular shades, roller shades, blinds, shutters, and drapery. The key is ensuring proper projection so the cornice clears the window treatment underneath by at least 2 inches. Measure your existing treatments when fully raised to determine the projection needed.
Measure the width you want to cover, typically extending 4 to 8 inches beyond the window frame on each side. Decide on height (usually 12 to 16 inches for cornices). Measure projection needed to clear any window treatments underneath, plus 2 inches clearance.
Yes, most customers install their own cornices. You'll need basic tools like a drill, screwdriver, tape measure, and level. Installation typically takes about an hour. Cornices mount with brackets attached to the back. Our products include mounting hardware and detailed instructions.
We offer 146 fabric options including linen textures, subtle patterns, bold solids, and designer prints. All fabrics coordinate with our drapery collection for a cohesive look. Order up to 15 free samples to see colors and textures in your actual space before ordering.
Wood valances can work in modern spaces when finished appropriately. Clean-lined wood cornices in painted finishes suit contemporary interiors. Stained wood works better in craftsman, traditional, or rustic spaces. The key is matching the finish and profile to your overall design aesthetic.
Ship times vary based on the specific product and customization options selected. Custom products are made to your exact specifications, not cut from stock. Shipping is free across the continental U.S. Contact our team for specific timing on your order.
Yes, our cornices and valances use the same 146 fabrics available for our custom drapery. This makes it easy to create a perfectly coordinated look. You can match fabrics exactly or choose complementary colors and patterns from the same collection.
Cornice height depends on window size and ceiling height. Standard cornices measure 12 to 18 inches tall. Taller windows can handle taller cornices. For standard 8-foot ceilings, 12 to 16 inches works well. The cornice should be proportional to the window without overwhelming the space.
Fabric cornices provide minimal insulation on their own but help when paired with insulating window treatments like cellular shades or thermal drapery. The cornice covers the gap at the top of the window, reducing air infiltration. For maximum energy efficiency, combine a cornice with insulated treatments underneath.
Yes, valances and cornices work on sliding doors. Ensure the width extends beyond the door frame for proper proportion. The cornice or valance should clear any door-mounted treatments like vertical blinds or panel tracks. Measure carefully to ensure the door operates freely.
Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment. For deeper cleaning, spot clean with mild soap and water, blotting rather than rubbing. Some fabric cornices can be removed for professional dry cleaning. Check care instructions for your specific fabric and construction.
