Styles of Window Curtains
There are many styles to choose from in window curtains and certain styles are more suitable for some situations and uses than others. To help you choose great curtains here is our guide to the styles available.
1. Rod Pocket Curtains
This style of window covering has many names. You may also know them as pole top curtains, casement curtains or panel curtains. The key is that they all have a pocket at the top which is then threaded onto a pole or curtain rod for hanging. Although they are quite simple in style it can be difficult to pull casement curtains across especially if you have tall windows and for this reason you may prefer to use this style for curtains which are more decorative than functional. You can enhance the look by drawing the rod pocket curtains to one side with matching or contrasting tiebacks or hold backs.
Beautiful lilac curtain fabric
2. Pencil Pleat Curtains
These curtains have uniform pleats (about the size and shape of a pencil!) across the top. The pleats are made by using a heading tape attached near the top of the curtain which is then gathered in by means are inbuilt threads. The gathering means that you need about two and a quarter to two and a half times the width of the window in fabric to create the fullness. Pencil pleat curtains are hung onto a curtain track, rail or pole using curtain hooks. These curtains are often used with a valance or other heading as the top of the curtain is not particularly decorative in itself.
3. French Pleat Curtains / Pinch Pleat curtains / Triple Pleat Curtains
These window treatments are again named after the style of heading tape which gathers the curtain by means of cords into a decorative triple pleated effect – more opulent than pencil pleat curtains yet requiring no more fabric. Each pleat is pinched together where the heading tape is positioned and the fabric fans out towards the top of the curtain. Sometimes the pleats are stitched in place where they pinch together with just a couple of stitches in each place to keep the crisp effect. French pleat curtains are attached to the curtain rail by means of curtain hooks. French pleat or pinch pleat drapes can be used for valances as well as curtains. A similar decorative style are goblet pleat curtains where the heading forms the shape of a goblet above the pleat.
4. Tab Top Curtains
These curtains use fabric loops at the top of the curtain which are threaded over a curtain rod or pole. The tabs may contrast with the curtain or be decorated with buttons. Similar to casement curtains tab top curtains can be difficult to move along the pole but as there is less fabric in contact with the pole it is only likely to be a problem with taller larger windows. Curtains tend to be cheaper than those formed using heading tape as they use less fabric. They suit minimalist interiors as there is less fullness in the fabric.
5. Tie Top Curtains
Tie top curtains are similar to tab top curtains and have the same drawbacks. In this case the “tabs” are formed by ties as the top of the curtain which are knotted to form the tab loops. Again the are threaded onto the curtain rods or poles. Tie top curtains are often used with sheer curtains where they form a pretty decorative top.
6. Grommet Top Curtains
Grommet top curtains are also slotted onto curtain rods or poles and sometimes tension wire. In this case the curtains have holes at the top reinforced with round metal grommets or eyelets. They are suitable for contemporary modern interiors.
7. Cafe Curtains
Cafe Curtains originated in cafes in the 19th century in Vienna where they were used so that customers to could watch the world go by while still maintaining some privacy. They are hung on poles which are fixed across the window so that the cafe curtains cover only the lower half. They remain in place the whole time rather than being drawn back during the day. These curtains are best used in informal areas such as a kitchen and therefore suit an informal style of header – tab top, tie top, casement or grommets rather than the formality of pinch or French pleats. They may be teamed with a decorative valance across the top of the window
8. Tie Back Curtains
Tie back curtains are formed from a single full panel that is gathered up and tied or held back to one side of a window with a decorative tie back or hold back of some kind. They are generally decorative rather than functional in nature although if enough fabric is used to cover the whole window with the usual fullness used by the heading, they can be released from their ties in the evening and cover the window as usual. They are most suitable for windows that are narrow rather than wide in nature.
9. Hourglass Curtains
Hourglass curtains are window coverings which are tied together in the center over the window so that they cover the whole rod or pole at the top and fan out towards the floor from where they are tied in the center forming an hourglass shape over the window. Highly decorative in nature, though blocking a lot of light from the window, they may be released from their ties in the evening if a functional curtain is required. If sheer fabrics are used they provide privacy without blocking so much light. Hourglass curtains are best fitted inside the window using tension rods and they may be topped with a decorative valence.
10. Sheer, Voile and Net Curtains
Sheer, net and voile curtains are made from very fine translucent fabric which let in some light while providing a degree of privacy. They are often used as under curtains covering the windows during the day while heavier curtains frame the windows and are drawn for additional privacy at night. For a long time they were considered old-fashioned and were only available in plain white or cream but these days they are available in every color of the rainbow and many are highly decorated with fine embroidery, sequins, beads and so on. Patterned sheers are also available. Sheer curtains usually use a simple casement heading and are threaded onto rods across the top of the window but other headings are also available. You will generally need a double curtain rod to hang them.
When looking at different types and styles of window curtains think about all the options which would be suitable for your windows before making a choice as you may get some new ideas from this list.
You Need Room Darkening Curtains!
If you’ve ever stayed at a hotel, you’ve probably experienced the luxury of room darkening curtains. We all love taking advantage of them to sleep in on vacation but there are actually many reasons to think about purchasing these light blocking curtains for your own bedroom.
Day Sleepers
In this busy world, a lot of people work jobs that have unusual schedules. You may have to go in to work at night and sleep during the day. This can be hard when there’s bright sunlight streaming into the room you’re trying to sleep in. If you need to get quality sleep during the daytime, light blocking window curtains can be a huge help. When they’re not in use they can be drawn back to allow normal light into the room, but for a quick nap or a daytime slumber, they can be closed to provide the perfect sleeping environment.
Room darkening curtains in many different colors CLICK IMAGE for details
Kids’ Rooms
Few kids are enthusiastic when nap time rolls around and it can be challenging to get them to sleep. Babies especially need sleep during the day, and parents appreciate the break. It can help your children to get to sleep easier if the room is properly darkened by curtains. A dark room feels more natural to sleep in and can help you establish a regular nap routine with your kids or baby.
Long Days
Finally, you can use room darkening curtains to stick to your sleeping schedule all year round. The time of sunrise and sunset varies throughout the year. If the sun comes up before you usually wake up, you might end up waking anyway due to the amount of light in the room. Similarly, it’s hard to fall asleep when the room is still bright even if it’s the time you normally go to bed. With these curtains, you can control the atmosphere in your room regardless of what schedule the sun is on.
Street Lights
If you live in a city you may find you are kept awake by the bright lights outside from traffic, street lights and illuminated signs. These curtains also help with blocking noise to a small degree too.
If you think about it, you’ll see that these curtains are really an investment in you and your family getting higher quality sleep – something that is essential to good health.
Room darkening curtains are available in many colors, even light shades. Light is typically blocked by the thickness of the fabric, not how dark it is. This lets you choose a style of curtain that complements your décor without having to worry about how effectiveness the color is at blocking the light. These curtains actually have a backing or a lining which is a kind of blackout material.
If you already have curtains you want to keep, buy blackout linings and attach these to your existing curtains to keep out the light otherwise you can buy room darkening curtains and see for yourself the difference they make. Click HERE for a great selection of blackout curtains and linings.
Pinch Pleat Drapes
Pinch pleat drapes are one of the most timeless and elegant styles of window curtains. The pinched pleats give them a slightly formal look but they are versatile enough that the finished style of your window treatments actually depends on the curtain fabric you choose and the way you hang your drapes, including the style of curtain rods or poles. If you choose a crisp fabric to form the pleats then pinch pleat curtains go very well with formal rooms and tailored furnishings, whereas if you have a softer fabric and hang them from a decorative pole then they take on a more casual look.
The pleats which are also know as triple pleats or French pleats are formed in groups of three pinched together. The triple pleats are spread evenly across the width of the curtain panel with gaps in between.
A pinch pleat drapery panel gives a neat finish because when the curtain is opened the fabric stays neat – the pleats close in concertina fashion.This means that they drapes are less bulky during the day and have a simple uncluttered look.
The Complete Photo Guide to Curtains and Draperies: Do-It-Yourself Window Treatments
Making Your own Pinch Pleated Drape
To create the design, you need two to two and a half times the width of your window in fabric for the necessary fullness. Creating your own pinch pleat drapery designs can be tricky if you make the pleats by hand as you need to work out where to put each pleat and space them properly so the math can get quite complicated.
However, you can cheat to make a perfect pinch pleat drape no problem at all!
For this you need to buy pleat tape like Ruflette tridis tape which you stitch to the wrong side of the curtain. This has draw strings which you pull to neatly form the pleats. You can then add a stitch to keep the pleats tight or even add a decorative fabric colored button to the “pinch” to emphasize the design.
If you want to explore the whole world of curtain headings and making your own beautiful drapes “The Complete Photo Guide to Curtains and Draperies: Do-It-Yourself Window Treatments” is a great book to help you. You’ll find it at a discount here.
Ready Made Pinch Pleat Drapes
Don’t worry if you don’t possess any sewing skills. You can buy pinch pleat drapes online and in local stores, ready to hang at your windows or if your windows are not a standard size, order ready made pinch pleat draperies including both window valances and curtains, which are custom made to fit.
When measuring for curtains, you need to know the width of the rod on which you will hang your drapes and the measurement from the rod to the final length of the curtains, whether that is just longer than the window or floor length.
When choosing drapes, look for a medium weight fabric which will create well defined pleats and hold them well especially if you are aiming for a formal tailored look. (Of course, if you are looking for voile curtains with pinch pleats, that will not apply).
Remember to always check whether there are single or a pair of curtain panels in any pack you buy so that you have enough to cover the whole window.
Hanging Your Pleated Drapes
Once you have your curtains, make sure that you hang them properly. Pinch pleated draperies look best if they hang clear of the rod or track across the top of the window. This helps the pleats form neatly without interference from the rod. The exception is if you are using a pinch pleat valance which can then cover the rod entirely. In fact, such a window valance is ideal if you want to cover an ugly plastic curtain rod.
A Selection of Pinch Pleat Drapes
Here are a few pinch pleat drapes on sale, to give you a few ideas for your home. If you are looking for patterned drapes you will get a better selection by buying custom made curtains but the low pricing of these solid colored online drapes is difficult to beat.
 Fireside Pinch Pleated Thermal Insulated Drapes |
Quality thermal pinch pleated drapes in 100% heavyweight cotton with foam backing available in several sizes and colors to match your room and furnishings. Easy to hang. Click here for further information on colors and sizes. |
 Park Ave Pinch Pleated Insulated Drape (CLICK IMAGE FOR DETAILS) |
Machine washable polyester low cost pinch pleat drapes offering great value for money especially as they are insulated too. Sold in pairs. Click here for further details.
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These sheer pinch pleat drapes hang beautifully from a rod or pole to provide an elegant window treatment. 100% easy care polyester voile. These curtain panels are sold in pairs. Click here for more information.
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 Elegance Sheer Pinch Pleated Drape (CLICK IMAGE FOR DETAILS) |
 Courtyard Pinch Pleated Drape (CLICK IMAGE FOR DETAILS) |
Each pinch pleat drape has a foam lining to help keep your home warm and light out. Panels made from easy care washable polyester and sold in pairs. See discount and further details here.
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Attractive floral curtains with 100% cotton face and foam backing for insulation. These pinched pleated drapes will hang beautifully at your windows and add an elegant touch to your home. Many sizes and two colors available. Get all the details here.
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 Fireside Floral Pinch Pleated Thermal Insulated Drapes (IN TWO COLORS - CLICK IMAGE FOR DETAILS) |
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