I bought a bed in a bag set which is gold with chocolate brown accents. I also bought choc brown and gold?
Try a deep orange or red. The colors will bring on romance, yet the deeper color will make it masculine.
Scarf Valance: If I buy from Joanne's, how do I sew?
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.
Drapes and valances for above a french door?
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.