Flat Curtain - No Fullness/Pleats
Flat curtains are sewn with no extra material, or "fullness," only what is needed to achieve the intended size of the curtain. Unless otherwise specified, standard European grommet/eyelet spacing is 8 inches (20 cm) on center; U.S. is 12 inches (30 cm) on center.
Tied-in Fullness/Pleats
Curtains with tied-in fullness are sewn as flat curtains, but with a greater width than intended for the finished drapery. The amount of extra fabric needed is determined by the amount of fullness desired. Grommets/eyelets are spaced along the webbing at intervals based on the fullness percentage, then pulled together and fastened with tie line to create full, rounded pleats the entire height of the curtain. Unless otherwise specified, standard European spacing between each pleat is 8 inches (20 cm); U.S. is 12 inches (30 cm). These can be used as a flat drapery as well, making this an excellent choice for when versatility is required.
Gathered Fullness
Flat curtains are sewn wider than necessary, then evenly gathered to create a rippled effect. European standard grommet/eyelet spacing is 8 inches (20 cm) on center; U.S. is 12 inches (30 cm) on center.
Sewn-in Round Pleats
Pleats are vertically stitched so that the fullness percentage is sewn into the finished curtain, which can be attached directly to a pipe/batten via tie lines, carabiners, or snap hooks sewn onto the webbing.
Knife Pleats
Knife pleats are formed by gathering, folding, and sewing down the fabric in single folds (see inset at right). This helps produce even fullness across the width and height of the drapery. The amount of fabric gathered is determined by how much fullness is desired. Hidden ties, grommets/eyelets, or other hardware can be added for easy installation. This style of drapery works well for temporary curtain applications, such as stage platform skirting (for which hook and loop tape is sewn on to the back of the curtains for attachment while the opposite fastener is installed on the stage platform). Unless otherwise specified, European standard grommet/eyelet spacing is 8 inches (20 cm) on center; U.S. is 12 inches (30 cm) on center.
Box Pleats
Box pleats are formed by gathering, folding, and sewing down the fabric in box-shaped (square) pleats. This produces even fullness across the drape. The amount of fabric gathered is determined by how much fullness is desired. Hidden ties, grommets/eyelets, or other hardware can be added for easy installation. This is the traditional pleating style for theatrical applications. Unless otherwise specified, European standard grommet/eyelet spacing is 8 inches (20 cm) on center; U.S. is 12 inches (30 cm) on center.
