Heads Up – choosing curtain headings

Beautiful curtains can instantly transform a room from drab to fab. But it’s not just about the fabric, curtain headings also play an important part in the overall look. There are many different styles of curtain headings and they all give a different effect.

I thought I’d share some of the popular styles of curtain headings that have been used with my fabrics. It might give you a little inspiration for your next project.

There’s no right or wrong style, it’s all down to personal choice, but some styles might suit your room better than others.

Pencil pleats
Pencil pleats are the traditional standard heading for curtains and suit all types of track and pole and most fabrics, patterned and plain. The pleats are gathered evenly across the top of the curtain using a drawstring tape. Simple and versatile, pencil pleats create a smart, formal window dressing but opened up a little, also suit a relaxed setting. They are suitable for most styles of room making them a popular choice.

Pinch pleats
Pinch pleat curtains have groups of structured pleats separated by flat sections; the hooks are then inserted at each pleat. Pinch pleats give a more formal tailored look and the curtains tend to hang in more uniform folds. It’s a very popular style, but I wouldn’t recommend attempting this if you are new to sewing; it’s definitely one for the experienced curtain maker. Pleats can be double or triple as shown below, and it’s worth bearing in mind that this style requires more fabric to achieve the look.

Eyelet curtains
Eyelet or ‘ring top’ curtains give a clean, modern look. Eyelets can work with slightly less than double fullness, although double fulness is recommended to give a nice ‘wave’ when the curtains are closed.

Cartridge Pleats
Cartridge Pleats are another way of creating a chic, modern look, giving a stylish ‘wave’ to the curtains.

Cottage pleats
Cottage pleats give a pretty, soft gather and are made by setting the curtain tape a few inches below the top. This style suits a traditional country setting and florals are a perfect choice.
The top frill can be short or long. The longer it is, the more it will fold over. For added interest you can sew a coordinating band of fabric along the top.

If you are looking for a curtain maker near you, please have a look at my stockist page, they will be more than happy to help you with your next project.

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