What the Heck is a Pencil Pleat Curtain?
Ever found yourself scrolling through curtain options online or wandering aimlessly down the aisles of a homeware shop wondering what is a pencil pleat curtain? You’re not alone.
With so many styles out there (eyelet, tab top, pinch pleat… the list goes on), it’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry. We’re here to unravel it all (pun intended).
Grab a cuppa and let’s break down what pencil pleat curtains actually are, why they’re so popular and whether they might just be the oh-so-stylish finishing touch your room needs.
First things first: what is a pencil pleat curtain?
A pencil pleat curtain is a type of header style for curtains. Basically, it refers to how the top of the curtain is gathered and attached to the curtain pole or track. Pencil pleats are created by gathering the fabric into tight, evenly spaced folds that resemble (you guessed it) rows of pencils lined up in a case.
The pleats are made using a heading tape sewn into the top of the curtain, which allows you to adjust the fullness to suit your space.
It’s a classic and traditional style that works beautifully in both modern and period homes. And don’t be fooled by their traditional roots. Pencil pleat curtains are incredibly versatile and can be styled to look super chic or effortlessly cosy, depending on the fabric and setting.
Related: How to Style Curtains for Wide or Long Windows
How do pencil pleat curtains work?
Here’s where the magic (and a bit of effort) happens. Pencil pleat curtains come with a heading tape sewn along the top. This tape has cords running through it, which you pull to gather the fabric into those neat pencil-like pleats.
Once you’ve adjusted the gather to the width of your curtain track or pole, you simply tie off the cords and hook the curtain onto curtain rings or gliders, depending on your setup.
The result? A beautifully tailored finish that adds soft structure and elegance to your windows.
Why choose pencil pleat curtains?
Here are a few good reasons why pencil pleats might be the perfect fit for your home.
1. Versatility across curtain poles and tracks
Unlike some header styles (we’re looking at you, eyelet curtains), pencil pleat curtains can be hung from either a curtain track or a pole. That makes them a flexible choice, especially if you’re working with existing fittings.
2. Adjustable fullness
One of the key benefits of pencil pleats is that you can control how gathered your curtain looks. Want a fuller, more luxurious drape? Pull the cords tighter. Prefer a looser, more laid-back look? Keep it relaxed. It’s totally up to you.
3. Timeless style
Pencil pleats have been around for decades, and for good reason. Their neat, tailored look never goes out of fashion and works just as well in a minimalist flat as it does in a country cottage. Talk about all-round appeal.
4. Works with all kinds of fabrics
Whether you love lightweight voiles or heavy velvet blackout curtains, pencil pleat headers suit just about any fabric. That means you’re free to choose the style, colour and texture that suits your space. No worrying whether it’ll hang right.
Pencil pleat vs eyelet curtains – what’s the difference?
Now that you know what pencil pleats are, you might be wondering how they stack up against other styles (particularly eyelets, which are super popular!)
Eyelet curtains have metal rings punched into the fabric, which you slide directly onto a curtain pole. They’re quick and easy to hang, with soft, even folds that fall naturally. But they only work with curtain poles, not tracks.
Pencil pleat curtains, on the other hand, take a bit more prep (you need to gather and hook them). But they offer more flexibility in terms of how and where you hang them. They also give a slightly more tailored and elegant look, which can elevate the style of a room.
In short: if you’re after ease, go for eyelets. If you want versatility and a classic feel, pencil pleats might just be your thing.
What kind of rooms suit pencil pleat curtains?
Pencil pleats are true all-rounders, but they shine in certain spaces:
- Living rooms and lounges: They add a soft, structured finish that complements both traditional and modern interiors.
- Bedrooms: Pair with blackout lining for a dreamy, hotel-style look that also keeps out the light.
- Dining rooms: Go for a luxurious fabric like velvet or chenille for an opulent feel.
- Guest rooms or home offices: Pencil pleats create a calm, polished look that makes any space feel more put-together.
Whether you’re going for cosy and casual or clean and elegant, the style can be tailored (literally) to suit.
How to hang pencil pleat curtains – a quick how-to
Here’s a step-by-step rundown of how to get your pencil pleat curtains looking their best:
- Measure your track or pole width – Not the window itself, but the full length your curtains will cover.
- Gather the curtain using the heading tape cords – Pull the cords until the curtain width matches your track or pole.
- Secure the cords – Tie them off but don’t cut them (you may want to adjust them in the future).
- Insert curtain hooks – These go into the heading tape pockets and can be positioned at different heights depending on where you want your curtain to sit.
- Hang your curtains – Attach the hooks to your curtain rings or gliders, then adjust and fluff the pleats for a neat finish.
Do pencil pleat curtains need tiebacks?
It’s totally up to you. Pencil pleat curtains tend to drape neatly, especially with heavier fabrics, but tiebacks can add that little extra touch of elegance. Not to mention helping keep things tidy if your curtains are more decorative than functional.
Opt for matching fabric tiebacks for a coordinated look. Or go bold with contrast colours like dark tiebacks and white curtains, or metallic holders for a more dramatic finish. Ooh, now we’re talking!
Can you wash pencil pleat curtains?
Yes, but always check the care label. Many pencil pleat curtains are machine washable, especially if they’re made from polyester or cotton blends. For heavier fabrics like velvet or lined curtains, dry cleaning is often recommended.
When washing, make sure to loosen the pleats and remove any hooks before popping them in the machine. And remember to iron or steam them while still slightly damp for the best results.
So, should I choose pencil pleat curtains?
If you’re looking for a curtain style that’s timeless, versatile and just the right balance of tailored and relaxed, pencil pleat curtains are a strong contender. They might take a few extra minutes to hang and adjust, but the finished look is so worth it. Think of them like the classic white shirt of the curtain world. Simple, stylish and effortlessly put-together.
Plus, with so many fabrics, colours and patterns to choose from, they’re a dream to style in any space. From soft neutrals to bold prints, there’s a pencil pleat curtain out there just waiting to ooze charm all over your living room. Take a look at Ooble’s full range of pencil pleat curtains to find the perfect fit for your home.