Which fabrics work best for Wave Fold and S Fold curtains?
Updated
Soft fabrics that drape well suit Wave Fold and S Fold curtains best, because the wave depends on how the fabric falls. Many retailers use the two names for the same look. Stiff or heavily structured fabrics can resist the curve and spring back. Always look at a hung sample before you decide.
A Wave Fold or S Fold curtain hangs in one even wave. At Speedy Blinds they are two headings: Wave Fold hangs on hooks and S Fold hangs on pendants. The shape comes from a tape in the heading and runners (gliders) held at a set spacing in the track. The fabric then has to follow that shape on its own, so how it drapes decides how good the wave looks.
What suits a wave
- Soft, flexible fabrics that fall into folds easily, such as sheers, voiles and light weaves.
- Medium weight fabrics with a good drape, which hold the wave without looking limp.
- Fabrics that are stable and do not stretch or distort much when hung.
- Fabrics with a soft finish rather than a stiff one.
What can be harder
A stiff or heavily structured fabric can resist the curve, no matter how much fabric is added. It can flatten the wave, spring back at the ends or look bulky across the top. Very heavy fabrics put more load on the hooks and runners. Fabrics that stretch or settle a lot can change how the wave looks over the first weeks.
More fullness does not make an unsuitable fabric hang well. It changes how much fabric is in the curtain and how big the stack is, but it cannot make a stiff fabric drape.
Other things that affect the result
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Fabric construction and finish | Decides how it drapes and how stiff it feels |
| Heading and tape | Sets the spacing of the wave |
| Fullness | Changes how deep the wave is and the size of the stack |
| Hem and drop | Set the finished length. Heavy fabrics and long drops settle more |
| Track installation | A track that is not true shows in the wave |
| Pre training | Sets the folds before packing, and is not available for every fabric |
Natural fibres such as linen move with temperature and humidity and crease readily, so look at them in a large sample and ask for the supplier's care information before you choose.
Your curtain retailer can show you a hung sample in the fabric you like, and check with their workroom whether it suits Wave Fold or S Fold and whether pre training is possible. Speedy Blinds makes Wave Fold and S Fold curtains for retailers.
Other ways people ask this
What fabric is best for S Fold curtains?
The same as Wave Fold: soft, drapey and stable fabrics suit the wave best.
Can I use a heavy fabric for Wave Fold?
Sometimes, but heavy or stiff fabrics can fight the curve. Look at a hung sample.
Are sheers good for Wave Fold?
Yes. Sheers and soft fabrics that drape well are a common choice.
Does lining change how a wave hangs?
It adds weight and body, which can help a light fabric. Ask your retailer how it affects the wave.
Useful on this site
This answer is general information. For your own windows, your retailer's advice and your order with them come first.