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Get your head(er) in the game: a comprehensive guide to Curtain Heading Types.

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So you know you need curtains, but that’s all you know. When I speak to customers about curtain headers, I often get blank, unknowing stares. And that’s fine, why would someone know about that? And the beauty of working with a bespoke and made-to-measure curtain maker is that suddenly a whole world of choice is opened up before their very eyes! Suddenly, you’re no longer limited to standard options, but can explore a variety of styles tailored specifically to your space and preferences.

 

 

Well, this guide is to help out with some of the mystery – so you know where you’re at and some of the choices you have. In this guide, I will explain what a heading on a curtain is, some of its functions, considerations and aesthetics and then a brief discussion of different heading types and how they can work for your home.

 

What Is a Curtain Heading?

The curtain heading is the finish at the top of a curtain, which determines how the curtain is attached to the track or pole. This is usually done with hooks, which are fastened into the heading itself. The choice of heading plays a significant role in the curtain's appearance, functionality, and the way the fabric drapes when the curtain is opened or closed. It will also impact on the fullness of the curtain and also how any pattern on the fabric is displayed. Curtain headings fall into two main categories: machine-sewn and hand-sewn.



Machine-sewn headings:

A machine sewn heading is created using pre-made heading tape; these tapes are machine sewn on to the top of the curtain and then gathered to create the finished appearance. The stitch lines will, therefore, be visible on the front side of the curtain (which is a consideration when choosing a heading). The cost of making up machine-sewn heading curtains are often lower as they take less time to make.

 

The most common heading tapes used:

 

Pencil pleat curtains:

Pencil pleat curtains by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds
Pencil pleat curtains by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds

This is a very common method of finishing curtains, it accounts for the vast majority of ready-made curtains bought in set sizes from many different shops. The look is created by gathering the curtain using the heading tape, pulling a number of cords through the curtain creating singular ridges down the length of the tape that look like pencils in a row, hence the name. Pencil pleat curtains are very versatile and work in a range of different interior concepts, from informal to formal.

Deep pencil pleat curtains by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds
Deep pencil pleat curtains by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds


The heading tapes used to create pencil pleat curtains can be in a range of sizes, creating quite different looks (please see photos for simple pencil pleat and deep pencil pleat curtains). For example, for a full-length window, you may consider a deeper pencil pleat which suits the dimensions of the curtain and also gives a more bespoke, tailored appearance.




 




An example of deep pencil pleats on a full-length bay window by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds

Cottage pleat curtains:

A cottage pleat sampler by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds
A cottage pleat sampler by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds

This is another type of heading that is incredibly versatile, and can create a very different aesthetic depending on the specific dimensions and measurements used. Cottage pleat is also used by machine sewing on a heading tape, usually a narrow one. This is placed a certain distance down from the top of the curtain. When the tape is then used to gather the top of the curtains, the space above the curtain gathers in a casual, informal way and the distance from the top will dictate whether it ‘flops’ over the curtain or ruffles above it. The finished appearance varies widely depending on the fabrics used, including any interlining



and the arrangement of the heading tape on the curtain. Cottage pleat curtains are typical of a cozy countryside cottage, hence the name!

 

 

Hand-sewn headings:

A hand-sewn heading is when pleats are created at the top of the curtain. The width of the curtain is divided into ‘pleats’ and ‘spaces’ in specified intervals across the top of the curtain, and then the pleats are handsewn in, depending on the design chosen. These types of headings often have a more formal appearance (although there are methods to soften and in-formalise, if there was such a word J, them too!). Hand-sewn headings tend to drape in a very organised way, giving a structured and elegant finish to the curtains both when open and closed. The increased labour time does tend to increase their make-up price but the end result is a truly bespoke made-to-measure pair of curtains. The beauty of employing a curtain maker who has considered your specific window and fabric choice is that the appearance will be carefully considered in terms of organisation of pleats and spaces and arrangement of pattern within the curtains.

 

Single Pleat Heading:

Single pleat heading
Single pleat heading

This is where the pleat is left as one simple pleat creating a minimalist and modern aesthetic which adds structure without being too fussy. This can be particularly effective if you have a ‘busy’ pattern on your fabric. These can be particularly useful on windows where there is minimal space for the curtain to ‘stack-back’ to (ie the space where the curtains are pushed to the side when open) – this heading is streamline in terms of stack back and has a clean, simple finish.

 






Double and triple heading:


An example of douple pleat heading (left) and triple pleat (right) by Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds


These headings are more traditional, with two or three pleats sewn at regular intervals across the top of the curtain. The appearance of double and triple pleats create a structured and symmetrical appearance making them ideal for more traditional and formal spaces.

 

Goblet pleat:

A goblet pleat is when the pleats are arranged into regular cylinders which are then gathered at the bottom of the pleat. These are less common in current interior design, and are more often seen in more traditional room décor.

 

Conclusion


Choosing the right curtain heading is an essential part of creating curtains that perfectly marry function with appearance, and will be cohesive with the rest of your room design. Whether you prefer the clean lines of a pencil pleat, the relaxed charm of a cottage pleat, or the tailored elegance of a hand-sewn heading, there is a perfect option for every room.


By understanding the different types of headings and how they can impact on the overall appearance and functionality of your curtains, you can make a more informed decision and enhance the beauty of your space.

If you're ready to explore custom-made curtains and want to discuss the best heading style for your windows, don’t hesitate to contact us at Janey Keirs Curtains and Blinds to discuss further. We will look forward to hearing from you!

 




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