Some curtains that recently went through the workroom had a bit of a twist; a handmade heading with double pleats, but they were secured at the top. I think they are called Euro pleats in the States. I have to confess that I haven’t got a clue what to call them except “double pleats sewn at the top.”
Double pleats with a difference.
The method for calculating the pleats and spaces was exactly the same as normal. If you look closely you will see that this is a striped silk which came from the Villa Nova Yoshino range. We were able to pleat to the stripes in this case. The lighter stripe is the pleat and the darker stripe is the space.
Close up of the double pleats held together at the top.
You will see from the picture below that the pleat was stab stitched in two places, at the middle and then the front of the top of the pleat.
Side view of the pleat.
This does create a very comtemporary look. It also makes the stack back quite small which is ideal for tight spaces.
One and a half width curtain.
Yes, we call them “euro pleats” in the states- or “top tack”. They are sometimes made with three fingers, sometimes with two. I love these two-finger pleats, very sleek.
I just did this same kind in my bedroom.
Does the pin hook go at the back of the pleat in the same way as a standard double pleat?
Hi Louise
Yes the pin hook goes in the same way as normal.
I really like the look of this style.
I’m about to embark on my first ever pleated curtain and was going for double pinch pleat with buckram. But I would love to try this instead. It looks elegant but somehow informal.
Is this style as easy/difficult (!) as traditional double pleats?
How much fabric should you use in each individual pleat?
Did you use buckram in this example – I ask because I wondered if there’s a danger that the bottom of the buckram could end up acting a bit like a lampshade?
Dear Fiona
Thank you for your comment
The method of make is exactly the same as any handmade heading except the pleats are secured at the top instead of traditionaly at the bottom.
The size of the pleat is usually determined by several factors…..i.e. the amount of fullness avaliable, the required headed width and also the pattern of the fabric.
However 2.25 times fullness should be enough for double pleats as long as you are NOT pleating to the pattern.
Buckrum was used in these curtains, they were then dressed and bandaged in the workroom to train the folds into place.
Hope that helps.
Best Wishes
Penny