McCalls calls it an Empire valence.

Here is a link that might be useful: mccalls valence

I used the serach term "tab top valance" and got hundreds of ones that look like that. Narrow the search by using the terms 'tab top pleated' or 'tab top Imperial'. Also try searching for *Imperial valances* and then narrow it to just the tab top ones.

I'm making a similar valance only with "knobs" instead of a rod. The patterns are here:

Here is a link that might be useful: southern living patterns

thanks dilly dally, although I still can't seem to locate already made ones. Might have to put up panels in the breakfast nook & save up for some custiom valances someday! (sigh)

sduck2- Thanks for the link. I looked at every single picture! They are gorgeous! You are so lucky to be able to make them. What talent!!!

betteratthelake - I just recently had a valance custom made. I can't sew and I also looked at ready-made ones and while there are lots out there, nothing was quite right. I went to a local shop here and they sort of made up what I wanted loosely based on a Pate Meadows design. Their website has a lot of inspiration pictures. Save up for what you want, it's worth it!

Betterlake, what exactly are you looking for? Solid color? Butterflies? Western? Gingham?

The ones I posted were just to show the style of *tab top Imperial*. I think the prints were all sort of ugly and were certainly not a recommendation.

mimi- those are beautiful!

dilly dally- I really don't care for anything too floral or paisley. Stripes and plaids are okay if mixed with something else. I like more of the diamonds patterns, no more than 3 or 4 colors. Solid would probably be fine but I have NO idea what color to even begin with. Someone did suggest a green- the only green shade I care for is sage.

Here a few pictures if you think you can point me in the right direction again, You are quite good at that!

Windows:
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Ignore the formal dining furniture, it is being replaced with this bassett table for a more informal look.

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my granite "gold leaf"
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and pic of kitchen{{!gwi}}

Forgot to mention, the walls are a light khaki tan color.
Thanks!

"dilly dally- I really don't care for anything too floral or paisley. Stripes and plaids are okay if mixed with something else. I like more of the diamonds patterns, no more than 3 or 4 colors. Solid would probably be fine but I have NO idea what color to even begin with.

Choosing a pattern for your valance is a personal and subjective thing. You now have some good search terms now to use for Google to help make shopping a breeze. You just have to persevere.

A search brings up the tab top Imperial style you like, with the diamond pattern you like, with neutral colors and bling fringe. It does not clash with the chair upholstery on the new chairs either. I'm not saying that you should love this one, as I said before choosing a pattern is personal taste. If you are timid about taking the plunge and ordering your new valances, why not narrow it down to a few you do like and post them here and let everyone vote to help you find the one.

It sounds like you know exactly what you what so maybe you will have to go with custom like Mini suggests, otherwise you will always look at the store bought valance and see them as not being right for you. If custom is not an option for you right at this point in time then go get some inexpensive Walmart ones in a solid color or buy a length of inexpensive material to wrap around the rods until you can get the ones you want. Knowing these inexpensive ones are only temporary will make you not hate them when you look at them. Also, don't automatically rule out lightweight panels for the room either.

Goal?

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Thanks dilly dally! I found these today, which I think will work. Now, just need to see if I can find a coupon code for Touch of Class.

Here is a link that might be useful: sage valances