How to Tape Pinch-Pleat Draperies

Pinch-pleat draperies provide the most style for the least amount of work.

Pleating tape allows you to make pinch-pleat draperies with minimal work. No-sew pleating tape adheres to the drapery panels when you apply enough heat. Pinch-pleat draperies provide the most style for the least amount of work. Most anyone can learn how to make them with enough concentration and determination.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring Tape
• Drapery fabric
• No-sew pleating tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Drapery rod and hooks

Instructions

Tape Pinch-pleat Draperies

1. Measure the length of the drapery rod. Divide this number by two to get the finished length of each drapery panel. Double the length for the cutting length, according to Simply the Best Home Decorating. The cutting length is how much fabric you need to buy. The finished length is how the panels will measure when you're done making them. Pleating tape requires a 2:1 ratio of finished length for fabric, so that when the fabric cinches with the tape, there's enough left to cover the window.

2. Fold the top of the drapery fabric over five inches and sew one inch and four inches down from the top to create a hem.

3. Cut the pleating tape to match the length of each drapery panel plus one inch on either end.

4. Pin the pleating tape to the top hem of the drapery panels. Fold both ends of the tape in. Use a pin to pull the cords out of the pleating tape.

5. Iron the pleating tape onto the fabric, pulling out a few inches worth of tape as you go.

6. Put the hooks inside the pleat pockets. Hang the hooks on the drapery rod, gathering the fabric as you do this.

7. Tie a cord or rope around the middle and just above the bottom of each drapery panel. Leave them this way for two days to set the pleats.

References

• "Simply the Best Home Decorating Book"; Simplicity Pattern Co.; 1993