How to Decide the Pleating of Drapes
The pleating of drapes is a decision made based on several factors. Fabric type, the fullness of the drapes and style of pleats all must be considered when planning pleating. Even before deciding the pleating, the hardware should be chosen and how the drapes will be opened and closed determined. It is helpful to purchase the hardware and have it installed before the curtains are constructed. Being armed with some knowledge about pleating styles and functions will make the choice of pleating process much easier. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Measure the distance from the wall to the front of the curtain rod. This measurement doubled and less 1 inch is the maximum distance from the center of one pleat to the center of the next if the curtains will run under the rod. If the curtains will hang in front of the rod, the mid-point between the pleats will fall forward, and the distance from center to center should be no more than the depth of the pleat plus two inches, times two. A triple-pinch pleat is typically 1 inch deep.
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Determine the function of the drapes. If they must have blackout lining, for example, they will be thicker than unlined drapes. The pleats will have less fabric each, and instead of a triple pleat, a cartridge or two-finger pleat will be more suitable. In order for the drapes to appear as full as possible, the pleats must be closer together.
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Decide the fullness of the drapes. Sheer drapes are usually triple fullness; lined drapes are most commonly made to two and a half times fullness. How much fabric must be in each pleat will help determine what style, and size of pleat to use. A sheer drape, at triple fullness and using a triple pinch pleat, will have a pleat using 6 inches of fabric every 2 inches.
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Consider the size of pleats created when using a thick fabric. A triple pinch pleat is very thick if constructed of velvet, for example. Very thick fabrics, especially if lined, are better suited to simple one- or two-finger pleats, closer together, to achieve the desired fullness. A double-fullness, lined velvet drape could have a two-finger pleat, using 4 inches of fabric every 4 inches, or a single-cartridge pleat using 2 inches of fabric every 2 inches. The cartridge-pleated drape will appear fuller because there are more pleats across the width.
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Tips & Warnings
The best way to decide which pleat is most suitable is to make a sample. Use 1/2 yard of the chosen fabric and line it as you will the finished product. Make several types of pleats to determine which one best meets your needs.
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