What are the different curtain heading styles?
Updated
The heading is the top of the curtain that sets how it gathers and what it hangs from. Common styles are Wave Fold and S Fold (many retailers use the two names for the same look), pinch pleat, pencil pleat, eyelet and tab top. Each looks different and needs a matching track or rod.
The heading is the top few centimetres of a curtain. It decides how the fabric gathers, what the curtain hangs from and how it looks when closed and open. Choosing the heading is one of the biggest style decisions, because it also decides what track or rod the curtain needs.
| Heading | How it looks | Usually hangs on |
|---|---|---|
| Wave Fold and S Fold | One even wave with no sewn pleats | A track made for the wave |
| Pinch pleat | Groups of sewn folds with flat fabric between | A track, or a rod with rings |
| Pencil pleat | Close, narrow gathers from a heading tape | A track, or a rod with rings |
| Eyelet | Metal rimmed holes with soft, even folds | A rod, threaded through the holes |
| Tab top | Fabric loops across the top, casual look | A rod |
Wave Fold and S Fold
A Wave Fold or S Fold curtain hangs in a regular wave. A tape in the heading and runners (gliders) held at a set spacing in the track make the shape. Many retailers use both names for the same look. At Speedy Blinds they are two headings: Wave Fold on hooks and S Fold on pendants.
Pinch pleat and pencil pleat
A pinch pleat curtain has groups of folds sewn permanently into the heading, usually two or three folds pinched together, with flat fabric between the groups. Double and triple pinch pleat are the common versions. A pencil pleat heading uses a tape that draws the fabric into close, narrow gathers.
Eyelet and tab top
Eyelet curtains have metal rimmed holes that a rod passes through. The look is modern and the folds are soft and even. Tab top curtains hang from loops of fabric across the top, which gives a casual look. Both are made for rods, and neither suits a track with runners in the usual way.
How to choose
- Start with the look you want, then check the track or rod it needs.
- Fabric matters. A soft fabric that drapes suits a wave. A heavier or lined fabric holds a sewn pleat.
- Fullness changes with the heading, so the same window can need a different amount of fabric.
- Look at samples hung, not flat on a table.
Your curtain retailer can show you the headings hung, tell you what each needs at your window and quote them side by side. Speedy Blinds makes Wave Fold, S Fold and pleated curtains for retailers.
Other ways people ask this
What are the traditional curtain headings?
Pencil pleat and pinch pleat are the traditional choices. Wave Fold and S Fold give a simple, modern look.
What is a curtain heading tape?
A band sewn across the top of the curtain that holds the pleats or the wave and carries the hooks or pendants.
Which heading is best for a track?
Wave Fold, S Fold, pinch pleat and pencil pleat all work on a track made for them. Ask your retailer which track suits the heading.
Which heading is best for a rod?
Eyelet and tab top are made for rods. Pinch pleat and pencil pleat can also hang from rings on a rod.
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This answer is general information. For your own windows, your retailer's advice and your order with them come first.