What is the difference between Wave Fold (S Fold) and pinch pleat curtains?
A Wave Fold or S Fold curtain hangs in one even wave formed by a heading tape and spaced runners (gliders) in the track. A pinch pleat curtain has groups of folds sewn permanently into the heading, with flat fabric between them. The wave reads as simple and modern, pinch pleat as tailored and classic.
How each one is made
On a Wave Fold or S Fold curtain nothing is pleated. A tape across the top and runners (gliders) held at a set spacing in the track make the fabric curve in front of and behind the track. On a pinch pleat curtain the heading is stiffened and the fabric is gathered into pleats, usually two or three folds pinched together, and stitched. A hook behind each pleat hangs on a runner or a ring.
| Feature | Wave Fold or S Fold | Pinch pleat |
|---|---|---|
| Look | One continuous, even wave | Sewn pleats with flat spaces between |
| Where the shape comes from | The tape and the runner spacing | Stitching in the heading |
| What it hangs on | A track made for the wave | A track, or a rod with rings |
| Often chosen for | Sheers and soft fabrics that drape | Heavier and lined fabrics |
Trade offs
- Wave Fold and S Fold need the right track. The runner spacing is part of the curtain, so the track and the curtain are made to match.
- Pinch pleats hold their shape because they are sewn. A wave depends more on how the fabric drapes, and a stiff fabric can resist it.
- Both can be hand drawn, cord drawn or motorised, depending on the track.
- Fullness, how much fabric is in the curtain, is set differently for each style, so the same window can take a different amount of fabric.
- Pinch pleat comes in versions. Double, with two folds, and triple, with three, are the common ones.
Which should you choose?
It is a style decision. Look at both hung, in a fabric like the one you want. Neither is the better curtain.
A curtain retailer can show you both headings, tell you what each needs at your window and quote them side by side. Speedy Blinds makes both for retailers and does not sell to the public.
Other ways people ask this
S Fold or pinch pleat?
The same comparison. S Fold and Wave Fold give the same wave look. At Speedy Blinds they are two different headings.
Is Wave Fold more modern than pinch pleat?
It is the simpler, less formal look. Pinch pleat is the more traditional, tailored one.
Can pinch pleat curtains be changed to Wave Fold?
Not by swapping hooks. The heading, the fullness and the track are all different, so ask a retailer what would be involved.
This answer is general information. For your own windows, your retailer's advice and your order with them come first.
Last reviewed