Not sure what kind of valance you want. If you are talking about one that is straight across the bottom and not longer on the sides, I would use the "loops" at the top, whereas with one that is curvy or has longer sides, I would go with the sleeve on top. The loops are going to allow a lot more light in than the sleeve, so it really depends on what you want. I made all of the draperies in our last house, and it was a project. Have tried almost every method. Go with what you are comfortable making.