FABRICS 287 Valances. As the top parts of window treatments are often unattractive in appearance, they are sometimes concealed by means of valances. A fabric valance may consist of a gathered or pleated ruffle or a shaped piece stiffened with buckram. A valance board is a narrow shelf to which the fabric curtain is at- tached. Swags. A simple type of valance consists of a length of pliable material carried across the top of one or more windows, passed through festoon rings or holders of plastic, wood, or metal, pos- sibly tied in a knot, and allowed to hang down to whatever length is desired. Swags may be used alone or with blinds, shades, cur- tains, or draperies. See page 300. Ropes or Cords. Curtains or draperies are omitted where ropes or cords are hung as a substitute, particularly in summer. They are effective over Venetian blinds or to develop some period effects or nautical, western, or masculine themes. Cornices. A window treatment may be finished at the top with a cornice, which is a wood or composition molding or frame, from 4 to 8 inches wide, painted or covered with some material. A decorative tin or wire arrangement may substitute for the usual wood cornice. Bamboo or Reed Roller Shades. These shades in natural colors can be used indoors to induce a tropical, studio, or garden effect. Interior Venetian Blinds. These blinds, made of adjustable horizontal or vertical slats of wood, composition, or metal admit light and air while giving privacy. They have a trim tailored look. They are, however, difficult to clean and are liable to become unworkable as parts wear out. They may be used without cur- tains, especially in summer. See page 24. Interior Shutters. An effective foreign custom is to have two narrow hinged, folding wooden shutters inside each window in- stead of shades and curtains. Exterior Venetian Blinds. These new adjustable metal blinds are practical, for they not only admit light and air but also prevent the sun ,from shining on the glass windows, which reduces indoor heat many degrees. Some are especially useful for first-floor win- dows because they are burglar-proof. Exterior Shutters. Although customarily used for decorative purposes only, outdoor shutters should also be made to function.