How to choose the right curtain header

A classic curtain heading style that creates a tailored, elegant look. Deeply inverted pleats run across the top of the curtain to create a flat heading style that is designed to sit neatly under a curtain rod or on a track.

Creating uniformed folds, most fabrics suit a box pleat, however, consideration must be taken when using highly pattered designs (especially geometrics) as the pleats can disrupt the pattern match. When using a standard width fabric, joins can be hidden in the fold of the pleat to minimise the appearance of seams.

Modern and contemporary, a wave heading style creates a simple, clean line. Structured bukram tape is secured to the rear of the header and the fabric is evenly distributed in a symmetrical wave formation.

Wave headers complement most solid, patterned, and sheer fabrics, and a continuous line across a window (without joins or seams) can be achieved with wide-width fabrics. This also increases manufacturing efficiency as less stitching is required. Synthetic fabrics particularly suit a wave heading style as they maintain a stable formation over large windows, as opposed to some natural fibres which fall in a more relaxed manner.

A simple curtain heading style with very little fullness, a flat panel creates a minimalist, contemporary aesthetic.

Perfect for solid and sheer fabrics, as well as a wonderful option for patterned fabric as there are no pleats to interrupt the pattern repeat. A flat panel is also ideal as a sheer behind a fully lined curtain on a double track, as it sits neatly underneath with very little stack-back. Given the relaxed look of this header style it lends itself well to high quality linens, for casual sophistication.

A pinch pleat creates a classic look. The pleats are created by folding creases into the stiff buckram tape and hooks are then inserted from which to hang the curtain on a track or from a rod. The three types of pinch pleat headers are distinguished by the number of folds at the top (single, double, or triple) as well as the fullness, stack back, and overall look.

Single Pinch Pleat (New York Pleat)

The single pinch pleat heading style offers a more modern aesthetic. An economical use of fabric, single pinch pleats are ideal for small spaces as they stack well and are suitable for a range of fabrics including sheers, solids, and patterns. Single pinch pleats are particularly effective for heavier fabrics.

Double Pinch Pleat (Dutch Pleat)

This is a versatile heading that creates an even, consistent aesthetic with neat stack back and a more traditional look. Whilst double pinch pleats maintain fabric efficiency, the finished look is full, smart, and elegant. Easy to install, the soft, structured look of this pleat makes it suitable for both full-length curtains and those that finish at dado level (i.e. the bottom third of the wall, approximately windowsill height).

Triple Pinch Pleat (French Pleat)

This is often considered a very formal, traditional heading style that creates a sumptuous, full curtain. This decorative heading style is best chosen for an expansive room, where it can be fully admired. Lending itself well to opulent fabrics, it does require more fabric than the single or double pinch pleat alternatives.

As the name suggests, this curtain heading style comprises small pencil-sized pleats that create a tightly gathered header. It is a simple option due to the heading tape allowing you to gather the fabric to your desired fullness, as you tighten the pull cords. Due to the fullness that can be achieved by this heading style we recommend avoiding very heavy or bulky fabrics, as these can disrupt the even distribution of the gathering.