Of course there are spring rods--I get the straight ones, round cafe rods, at Wal-mart--very inexpensive. They have rubber tips on the ends for grip. My sewing rm sounds much like your family--I have 2 'window walls' consisting of 10 windows. Since they were side by side, I did not want attached rods. So I have sheers on cafe spring rods that fit between the facings. I love to crank the windows out and see the sheers billow from a breeze. To each his own taste.

You certainly can get just valances...jcpenney and country curtains and others carry just valances...

Thanks so much, ladies for your comments. I just can't stand a dark room and feel like you do,dancingirl. I am going to look into shade blinds for my windows facing the West because of the hot days in summer.; however you are certainly right in your thinking--to each his own taste.. Barb