There are many styles of top treatments for drapes.
A top treatment gives drapes a finished, decorator appearance. Top treatments add color and texture and soften the hard edges of windows. They provide another layer of interest and give drapes more presence in the room. Valances, swags and scarves also function to hide hardware and the tops of the drapes. From casual to more elaborate, there are many styles of top treatments to choose from. Does this Spark an idea?
Rod Pocket Valances
Valances are usually 10 to 18 inches in length and cover the tops of drapes. Most valances have a pocket sewn into the top of the fabric in which the drapery rod is inserted and hidden. There are many styles of rod pocket valances to choose from. Scalloped valances have a curvy, semi-circular bottom edge. A balloon valance has a gathered, puffy appearance for a romantic look. There are tailored, plain valances for a more contemporary design. Pleated rod pocket valances look good with traditional or formal décor.
Tab- and Tie-Top Valances
Tab-top valances have open loops that slide over the drapery rod. Types of tab-top valances are standard, gathered and button tab. Tie-top valances have loops that tie directly onto the drapery rod and are easy to remove for cleaning.
Swags
Swags hang in curved, semi-circular shapes looped over the drapery rod. This is a formal top treatment often embellished with ruffles, fringe or other trim.
Scarves
Scarves hang from decorative scarf hooks above and to the sides of the window. The center portion of the scarf hangs in folds in a semi-circular shape. The ends flow down from the hooks towards the bottom of the drapes. Another way to drape a scarf is directly from the drapery rod.
Cornices
Usually constructed from wood, a cornice is painted or stained and decorated with molding. With an upholstered cornice, padding and fabric cover the wood. Cornices are available in different heights, widths and shapes.
Festoons and Jabots
A festoon is a top treatment of folded fabric that hangs in a curve and frames the top of the window. Used with the festoon, a jabot is the vertical ends of the treatment that hangs in folds down the sides of the window.
Trends in Top Treatments
Decorating trends in top treatments call for the use of organic, natural materials. Toppers made from bamboo, wood, woven grasses and flax provide a textured look hung alone or over shades, blinds or sheer curtains.
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