At Lilas Interiors, we specialize in helping customers get the most out of their Made to Measure Curtains in Leicester. Pencil pleat curtains are a timeless choice for both modern and traditional interiors, offering a neatly tailored look that enhances any room. This guide will show you how to hang pencil pleat curtains to achieve a professional finish.
What Are Pencil Pleat Curtains?
Pencil pleat curtains feature tightly gathered folds at the top that resemble rows of pencils. These pleats give a sophisticated, streamlined appearance and can be adjusted to provide varying levels of fullness. They are versatile and work well in living rooms, bedrooms, and even formal spaces like dining rooms.
Step 1: Measure and Choose the Right Curtain Size
Before hanging your pencil pleat curtains, ensure you have the correct size.
Measure the Curtain Width
For curtains in Leicester or anywhere, it’s important to measure accurately:
- Measure the curtain track or pole width, not the window width.
- For track systems, measure the full width of the track.
- For curtain poles, measure the length of the pole between finials.
To achieve a full, gathered look, pencil pleat curtains are usually 2 to 2.5 times the width of your window or pole. Check the package of your made to measure curtains for guidance on width recommendations.
Step 2: Prepare the Pencil Pleat Heading
- Lay Out the Curtain: Spread the curtain out on a flat surface with the heading tape facing you.
- Find the Cord: Locate the cords at the top of the curtain within the heading tape. These cords will be used to adjust the pleating.
- Tie One End of the Cord: On one side of the curtain, tie the cords together in a secure knot to prevent them from slipping when you begin to gather the pleats.
- Gather the Pleats:
- Holding the untied cords at the other end, begin pulling them slowly to gather the fabric.
- Pull the cords evenly across the width of the curtain to create uniform pleats.
- Keep pulling until the curtain width matches the width of your track or pole.
- Secure the Pleats: Once you’ve gathered the curtain to the right width, tie the cords securely at the other end.
Tip: Make sure the pleats are evenly spaced. You can adjust them by sliding the fabric along the cords before tying.
Step 3: Attach Curtain Hooks
Pencil pleat curtains use hooks to attach to the track or pole.
- Insert the Hooks: Pencil pleat curtains have three positions where you can insert hooks into the heading tape: the top, middle, and bottom pockets. Choosing the right pocket depends on how high or low you want your curtains to hang.
- Top pocket: The curtain will hang just below the pole or track.
- Middle pocket: Offers a standard hanging height.
- Bottom pocket: The curtain will hang closer to the floor.
- Spacing the Hooks:
- Insert hooks every 4 to 6 pleats, or around every 10 cm (4 inches).
- Make sure the hooks are evenly spaced to ensure a balanced drape.
- Curtain Overlap: If your curtains will meet in the middle of a window, add extra hooks at each end of the curtains to ensure they overlap slightly when closed.
Step 4: Hang the Curtains
Once you’ve inserted the hooks into the pencil pleat heading, it’s time to hang the curtains.
- Attach the Hooks to the Track or Pole:
- For curtain tracks: Slide the hooks into the gliders on the track.
- For curtain poles: Hook them onto the curtain rings.
- Check the Position: Once the curtain is hanging, adjust the pleats by pulling them gently into shape. This will help ensure they fall evenly when opened or closed.
- Adjust the Curtain Drop: Stand back and check that the curtains fall to the correct length. If they seem too high or too low, adjust the hook placement in the heading tape.
Step 5: Style the Curtains
For a polished, professional look, take time to arrange the pleats and drape of the curtains once they’re hung.
- Arrange the Pleats: Gently shape the pleats with your hands, making sure each fold is straight and falls evenly to the floor.
- Settle the Fabric: It may take a few days for the fabric to fully settle. You can steam or iron out any wrinkles, but be sure to check the care instructions before doing so.
- Final Touch: Once your pencil pleat curtains are properly hung and adjusted, they will provide a tailored and elegant appearance, enhancing your room’s overall decor.
Additional Tips for Hanging Pencil Pleat Curtains
- Using Tiebacks: Tiebacks are a great way to complete the look. They help control the drape of your curtains and keep them neatly in place when open.
- Layering: If you’re using sheer curtains behind your pencil pleats, hang the sheers on a separate rod for easy adjustment and added privacy.
- Curtain Length: If your curtains are too long, consider hemming them for a custom fit. Alternatively, use puddle-length curtains for a dramatic look.
Why Choose Made to Measure Curtains in Leicester?
If you’re looking for a perfect fit and tailored look, Made to Measure Curtains in Leicester from Lilas Interiors are a great solution. We offer a wide range of fabrics, patterns, and styles to suit your home’s unique needs. Made-to-measure curtains provide:
- Precision Fit: Custom measurements ensure your curtains will hang perfectly, with no need for adjustments or off-the-shelf compromises.
- Wide Fabric Selection: Choose from luxurious fabrics and designs to suit any room decor.
- Expert Craftsmanship: At Lilas Interiors, our curtains are made with care and attention to detail to deliver a flawless finish.
Explore our collection of curtains in Leicester to find the ideal curtains for your home, or get in touch with us to discuss your made-to-measure options.
By following this guide and with our expert help at Lilas Interiors, you can hang your pencil pleat curtains perfectly, bringing style and functionality to any room in your home.