Curtain Pleats Explained

Our guide to the pros & cons of each curtain pleat

Should you go for Wave curtains, pinch pleat curtains, or something else? It can maybe feel like a bit of a minefield with all the different styles and understanding what works best in your home is imperitive before going ahead with any curtain project.

Wave curtains and double pinch pleat curtains are our most popular curtain heading, but there are a whole host more, each with their own merit from classic, relaxed, to neat and polished; it really depends on the look and feel you want in your home.

With Wave curtains being neat, stylish and minimalist, you can see why it's extremely popular, especially among more modern properties with large windows.

  • Pros:
    • Wave curtains are great for large, wide windows
    • The minimal stacking allows for maximum window when the curtains are open
    • There's no pleat, making it perfect for a modern look
  • Cons:
    • No overlap when the curtains are closed, leading to slightly less darkness in bedrooms
    • The curtains hang under the track, once again this wouldn't be best suited for those who are light sensitive
Close up of Wave curtains

Pinch pleat curtains (either double pinch pleat, or triple pinch pleat) are more traditional, and offer a more tailored look.

  • Pros:
    • Can cover the track, so better for blackout
    • Offers a more 'formal' and 'tailored' look
    • Can install on tracks and poles
  • Cons:
    • Takes up more space than Wave curtains
    • Can be seen to be a bit too 'traditional' for some people's style
Double pinch pleat curtains close up

European pleat curtains are a modern take on the traditional pinch pleat, and becoming increasingly popular

  • Pros:
    • Offers a mix between a tailored style and modern
    • Not so common, so quite unique for anyone who selects this style
    • Perfectly suited to straight and bay windows
  • Cons:
    • Hangs under the track so offers a little less blackout than the traditional pinch pleat
European pinch pleat close up

Pencil/casual pleat curtains are a relaxed and gathered curtain made from 3" tape

  • Pros:
    • Uses less material than other pleated curtains
    • More cost effective as it doesn't require a hand-pleated finish
    • Can be installed on tracks, poles and all types of windows
  • Cons:
    • Doesn't offer a 'tailored' look
    • Takes up more space when stacked than Wave

As you can see, there's no right or wrong; each style of home, and individual room can be better suited to different types of curtain heading.

We are always here to help, advice and explain on site how each pleat would work, and be best suited to your property.