How to Hang Your Curtains: The Pencil Pleat Guide
Pencil pleat curtains are a popular style of curtains that are suitable for a wide range of interiors. The term ‘pencil pleat’ refers to the tightly gathered pleats at the top of the curtain, which are created by pulling cords or tapes. This style of heading works beautifully with any of our fabric types and creates a relaxed look for your made to measure curtains. Follow our seven simple steps below and you’ll have your pencil pleat curtains hung in no time!
How to Gather Your Pencil Pleat Curtains
Once your brand new made to measure pencil pleat curtains have arrived, the first step is to gather the pleats. Leaving them as they arrive will mean the top of the curtain could look messy and non-uniform.
1. Tie the three draw strings together at one side of each curtain. The tie should be secure but not too tight and should be made on the leading edge, where the curtains (if a pair) will meet.
2. Make sure you have the final measurement of your pole or track to determine your required curtain width.
3. Pull the three cords at the same time to gather the curtain. Continue to gather the curtain into even pleats until the required curtain width is reached.
4. When you’ve reached the right width with your curtains, tie off the cords but DO NOT CUT OFF the excess strings. You never know if you might need to un-gather the curtain at a later date for cleaning. Tuck the loose cords out of sight behind the heading tape.
5. There are 3 rows on the back of the pencil pleat heading to insert your hooks - decide which row of hook pockets to use. Keep in mind that this will alter the length of your curtains. The top row will mean your curtains have less pooling or are further from the floor, the bottom row will have the opposite effect.
6. Insert a hook at each end of the pencil pleat tape/heading and then approximately at 10cm intervals across the rest of the curtain.
7. Attach each hook to a curtain ring (for a pole) or glider (for a track). Run your hands down your pencil pleat curtains once they’re hung to achieve your desired effect and help the fabric to fall evenly. If you need more or less length on your curtains, simply adjust the hooks!
