Choosing the right curtain headings for your home

Different curtain headings give different effects, so if you’re planning on buying or making new curtains find out which heading works best.

Beautiful curtains can instantly transform a room from drab to fab. A simple way to add drama and interest to any space, a great set of drapes will give a room a finished, polished look. But it’s not just about the fabric. Different curtain headings give different effects and work better with some materials than others, so start by considering which one best suits your room.

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. Simple and versatile, the pencil pleats create a smart, formal window dressing but opened up a little, also suit a relaxed setting. Many ready-mades come with a pencil pleat heading, so you can buy off-the-peg.

Double or triple pinch pleats

Double or triple pinch pleats use more fabric and are fuller than pencil pleats. The pleats are sewn by hand to a fixed heading and fitted with hooks and cannot be loosened, so do measure up accurately. Pleats create a more formal tailored look and because of the depth of the pleat, suit a long curtain and a bold pattern or sumptuous material like velvet.

Eyelet curtains

Eyelet curtains are a great way to create a modern look, particularly at French windows or bi-fold doors, and hang in wide, loose folds. Available off the peg from the big high street retailers in a multitude of fabrics, eyelet curtains are suitable for poles only but are simple to hang as the big rings slot straight on. If you’re having them made, measure from the top of the pole to where you want the curtains to finish, adding 3cm for the space from the eyelet to the top of the curtain.

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