How to Tie Up Valance Curtains the Right Way (Step-by-Step Video Tutorial)

If you’ve ever unboxed a set of tie-up valance curtains and thought, how on earth do I tie these things?—you’re not alone.

These pretty roll-up curtain styles can be tricky, but once you know the right way to hang and tie them, they’re total showstoppers.

In this post (and video!), I’m walking you through exactly how to tie up valance curtains for a crisp, classic look that actually stays put.

Watch the step-by-step tutorial below to see exactly how to tie your valance curtains the right way—it’s easier than you think!

What are Tie-Up Valance Curtains? A Charming Window Treatment Solution

A tie-up valance curtain is a decorative window treatment that brings instant charm and elegance to any room. These fabric valances are designed to be tied up with ribbons or fabric strips, creating a soft cascading effect that lets in light or can be lowered for privacy and sun blocking.

I found the perfect custom cotton valance curtains on Etsy—white with the sweetest black and white bows. They’re made-to-order, which means you can get the exact right fit for your windows.

At our home in Maine, the windows are on the smaller side, designed in an Early American style, so these tie-up valance curtains were a perfect fit—light, airy, and full of vintage charm. But when it came time to hang them? I realized I had no idea how to tie them the right way. If you’ve been in the same boat, don’t worry—I’ve got a super simple accordion-style method to share with you today!

Shop My Favorite Tie-Up Valance Curtains

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How to Hang Tie-Up Valance Curtains Step-by-Step (With Video Tutorial)

Ready to learn how to hang and style your tie-up valance curtains the right way?

Whether you’re working with custom-made panels or store-bought valances, this simple step-by-step method will give you that clean, gathered look without the frustration. Let’s get started!

Step 1 – Iron Your Tie-Up Valance Curtains

Before you hang anything, take a minute to iron your valance panels—including the attached ribbons. Trust me, don’t skip this step! Freshly pressed fabric makes all the difference in getting that clean, romantic, balanced look we’re going for. Plus, it helps everything fold more smoothly once you start tying.

Step 2 – Hang the Curtain Panel with a Tension Rod

Next, slide your curtain or tension rod through the rod pocket at the top of the valance panel. Distribute the gathers evenly along the rod to create a soft, balanced drape. I used tension rods for this project—no need for brackets, nails, or fuss. Just pop them into the window frame, and you’re ready to tie!

Step 3 – Tie the Attached Valance Ribbons

Once the curtain is hung, it’s time to tie those charming ribbons that come attached to your tie-up valance curtains. When tying, skip the full knot! A single loop-over creates a softer, more elevated look. You will also want to use the back ribbon to tie forward for a neater bow that stays in place, as pictured below.

You’ll discover why later in this process.

Step 4 – Start the Accordion-Style Fold

Now comes the fun part—folding your tie-up valance for that polished, tailored look. Begin by folding the bottom of the curtain panel toward the window (or back side) about one inch. You can match the size of the fold to your seam width—I used a 1-inch fold to match the hem. Then, alternate the direction of your folds—like an accordion or paper fan—working your way up until you reach the ribbons. This creates soft, even layers that give your valance its classic cascading shape. (Refer to the video for a close-up on the folding process.)

Step 5 – Secure the Folds and Style the Ribbons

Next, gently tuck the ends of your folds into the loose ribbon loops you created earlier—think of them as soft “pseudo-knots.” From here, fluff and adjust the fabric until the folds feel balanced and even. I don’t recommend tying the ribbons into full knots, as it can crease and wrinkle the fabric.

Instead, you can leave the ribbons hanging for a relaxed look or tie them into neat bows like I did. I trimmed the ribbon ends to match the proportions of each valance for a clean, tailored finish.

Once you’ve done one, the rest will come together in no time!

Decorating with Tie-Up Valance Curtains in Any Room

Tie-up valance curtains aren’t just functional—they’re a beautiful way to add vintage charm, softness, and personality to any space. In our small, primitive style kitchen, these white cotton valances with black-and-white ribbon ties brought just the right balance of light and privacy to our Early American-style windows.

Depending on your style, you can dress up your tie-up valances in so many ways. Try switching out the ribbons with different colors or patterns, tying them in bows, double bows, or letting them hang loosely for a relaxed look. The best part? You don’t need a professional—just a little creativity and a few simple steps.

Whether you’re styling a bay window, a dining room, or a cozy cottage kitchen, tie-up valance curtains work beautifully in both traditional and modern spaces. They pair well with sheer curtains for an airy vibe or can be layered with heavier panels for a more dramatic effect. And because they’re typically a rod-pocket style, they’re perfect for renters and homeowners alike.

Looking for more window treatment inspiration? Browse some of my favorite curtain and shade ideas or follow along on the blog as I decorate both of our homes with vintage charm and simple, everyday style.

Tie-up valance curtains are such a simple yet stunning way to dress up your windows—especially when you know how to hang and tie them the right way.

With just a few easy steps, a quick accordion fold, and a little ribbon styling, you can transform any small window into a cozy, polished focal point.

Whether you’re decorating a cottage kitchen, vintage-inspired space, or a charming New England home like ours, these tie-up valance curtains offer timeless style with practical function.

Troubleshooting Tie-Up Valance Curtain Issues

Even with a simple folding method, tie-up valance curtains can be a little fussy the first time around. Here are a few quick fixes for common issues that might pop up:

Why won’t my tie-up valance hang evenly?

If one side is higher than the other, double-check that your folds are uniform in width and that the ribbons are tied at equal height. Gently adjust the accordion folds and re-tie the bows or loops until both sides are symmetrical.

My ribbons look wrinkled or messy—what should I do?

Give your ribbons a quick press with a low-heat iron before hanging. Avoid tying them into tight knots, which can crease the fabric. A soft loop or bow will look neater and more intentional.

What if my window is too wide (or too narrow) for the valance?

You can gather or stretch the panel along the rod pocket to fit your window frame more precisely. Custom-made valances, like the ones I used here, are ideal for small windows and allow you to choose the exact width you need.

My folds keep slipping or losing shape—how do I keep them in place?

Try lightly pressing each fold as you work your way up. Be sure the fabric is ironed and evenly distributed before folding. Tucking the ends into the ribbon loops helps secure the folds and keep everything looking polished.

Have you tried tie-up valances before? Share your curtain styling stories or tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your look!

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