Make your pencil pleat curtains look just as good as they do in the photos - Just follow our handy how-to guide below!
Measure Before Gathering
Before gathering your curtains, measure the full width of your curtain track or pole (excluding any finials). For a pair of curtains, gather each curtain panel to just over half the track width so they meet neatly in the centre when closed. For a single curtain, gather the curtain to slightly wider than the full track width to ensure adequate coverage and a full, pleated look.
Before gathering your curtains, measure the full width of your curtain track or pole (excluding any finials). For a pair of curtains, gather each curtain panel to just over half the track width so they meet neatly in the centre when closed. For a single curtain, gather the curtain to slightly wider than the full track width to ensure adequate coverage and a full, pleated look.
Check Your Width as You Go
Lay the curtain flat and periodically measure the gathered width while pulling the cords. This will help you achieve the correct size and ensure the pleats are evenly distributed across the curtain.
Lay the curtain flat and periodically measure the gathered width while pulling the cords. This will help you achieve the correct size and ensure the pleats are evenly distributed across the curtain.
To create the pleats, locate the draw cords on one side of the curtain tape (preferably the cords will be at either end of the window not in the middle). Hold the cords firmly in one hand and use the other hand to gently slide the fabric along the cords, gathering it into even pleats. Continue until the curtain reaches the required width. For a pair of curtains, each curtain should be gathered to just over half the track length. For a single curtain, gather it to slightly wider than the full track length.
When drawn to the width you require (half the track width plus 5-10cms) tie the three cords into one knot. Don’t cut these cords as you’ll need to untie them to stretch the curtain flat for cleaning.
Insert the plastic hooks on either the centre or bottom row of the curtain, spaces at approximately every four pleats. The hook is inserted upside down and turned over. Finally, insert the hooks into glides along the track length. You may iron the curtain with a cool iron (fabric side up) if the care instructions allow this, otherwise simply hang as is.
Tips for even pleats: As you gather the curtain, regularly distribute the pleats along the heading tape to keep them evenly spaced. Once the desired width is reached, take a moment to adjust the folds by hand, ensuring the pleats are uniform in size and neatly aligned across the full width of the curtain.