The easiest thing to do is get a set of grommets and a mallet. Place the grommet where you want, hammer it on, and then burn off the fabric with a match. Sometimes just punching the grommet in with a mallet/hammer cuts out the circular little piece o...
A scarf valance only needs edge stitching. first you must have a sewing machine. or you can get that tape that thet use to finish edges from a craft store. Jcpenny and Linen N' Things sells great scarfs.
Either will work but it really depends on your decorating style. I personally think a decorative cornice would be elegant and a valance would be functional and practical.