Envelope Pillows and Valances

Since the previous article was on the Rag Quilt I wanted to show you what can be done after the quilt is finished. I had originally made the rag quilt for our great room couch and had tons of left over fabric. So I decided to make some envelope pillows to match. I love envelope pillows because they can be removed and washed very easily. I was going to go through all of the instructions but this is the particular pattern I use. It is so easy and well instructed I am just going to post the link for you.

Envelope Pillow Pattern

Now she uses just one fabric, but with a little math you can use as many fabrics as you like. Just pick your fabrics and put them together in the length and width you need.

 

VALANCES

Well of course after doing pillows and the quilt….I decided the walls needed color, so we painted the entire room and ceiling. After doing that the next logical thing to do was make some valances.

Valances are so easy to make and a great way to add a designer look to any room. Especially if they match pillows and a quilt.

How to make a valance:

1. First pick your fabrics or fabric. I think two fabrics are better and give a more tailored look.

2. Then decide how far down you would like them to hang. Mine in the picture are 16″ x 40″(for wider windows or more of a ruffled look you will have to join the fabric at the selvage)

3. I suggest cutting on a quilting cutting board with a rotary cutter for the best result.

If you are using a fabric with a horizontal design make sure you are cutting the pattern straight!! With horizontal designs scissors may be the best option.

First I cut my main print and a lining at 14″ length by the width you need (remember to always allow an extra 1″ in width and length for your seam allowance). For lining I love to use muslin. Putting right sides together I sew (using 1/2″ seam allowance) down one side; then the bottom of the valance and up the other side. After that turn the valance right side out and press.

Then cut your stripe print(or second fabric of choice) 6.5″ by whatever length you need. Fold each end in 1/2″ then press and sew each end. Then you will fold the 6.5 inch (should be 3.25″ after folding) piece in 1/2 and press again.

Now comes the easy part. Lay the stripe on top of the main print and muslin; then pin them. Next you will sew them together, and viola you have a valance. Press your seam down and sew it for a more decorative look. Add curtain 2″ rod through the stripe and you are all done.

As you can see making one quilt can turn into a whole room makeover! It really does get addicting. Of course after I finished all of the valances I had to custom paint all of the end tables to match the quilt!I also wanted to share another great link with you for making curtains. They have some great ideas if you want to do more then a valance. Check it out here.