What Pleat is Right For You?
This question is the most asked of More Than Curtains! In our 22 years of supplying soft furnishings, we have seen the fashion in pleating change dramatically. But now thankfully common sense usually prevails, and clients select pleats that are practical for the given situation.
So what do you need to consider when choosing pleats? We believe number one is the thickness of the fabric. Many pleats look better on lighter weight fabrics, for example knife pleats on sheers, as opposed to heavier fabrics that can accommodate a bulkier treatment. Certain pleats will require more fabric, so that must also be considered in terms of the bulkiness of the curtain, how and where it will stack when opened, and the cost involved.
One also needs to take into account the decor of the home. Contemporary styles look great with the popular Ripplefold, or S-Pleat curtains. these work well on any fabric and give a very neat regular fold. Another consideration is the type of rods or tracking to be used. Ripplefolds require special tracks/rods with clip on tape to hold the curtain in place, and currently the options are limited.
More traditional homes can have the decor enhanced using Goblet or pinch pleat curtains."Upright" pleats like these can be used on any type of hardware.
Knife pleats are great if space is limited, such as under a pelmet or valance. They still allow the curtains to drape softly and evenly and the fullness can be controlled depending on the density of the fabric. Just a hint: there is no point using decorative pleats under a pelmet, as you wont see them!
Box pleats have increased in popularity in recent times, as they are successful as an alternative to pelmets, plus they look sensational in most fabrics as a curtain. Fullness can be adjusted to suit the fabric and budget, and the style s appealing in all types of decor.
Financial constraints can also determine what pleating is selected. As mentioned before, some pleats such as Box pleats, Goblets or cartridge pleats require slightly less fabric without compromising the appearance of fullness. Over a large window, this may amount to a significant saving.
To avoid confusion and receive unbiased expert advice on the pleating that will be perfect for your curtains, call More than Curtains now on 0412 225 437 or email lucia1@bigpond.com and arrange an obligation free consultation in your home.