Why fitting pencil pleat curtains takes patience
Pencil pleat curtains are one of the most traditional heading styles, with tightly gathered folds that resemble pencil lines. They’re versatile and elegant but need a bit more care during fitting compared with eyelet or wave curtains. Getting the heading cords, hooks, and pleats set up correctly will ensure they hang neatly and frame your window beautifully.
What you’ll need
You’ll need a curtain pole or track, curtain hooks, and of course the pencil pleat curtains themselves. A tape measure, pencil, drill with screws and wall plugs (if fitting a new pole or track), and a spirit level will also be useful.
Pole or track fitting
Pencil pleat curtains work well with both poles and tracks. On a pole, the hooks attach to curtain rings, while on a track they connect directly to the gliders. The choice depends on the look you prefer – poles give a more decorative finish, while tracks create a discreet, practical effect.
Step-by-step fitting guide
- Prepare the heading tape: Pull the cords on the back of the curtains to gather the fabric into neat pleats. Adjust the fullness to suit the width of your window.
- Tie off the cords: Once the pleats are even, knot the cords securely at one end but leave them loose at the other so adjustments can be made later if needed.
- Insert the hooks: Slide curtain hooks into the heading tape pockets at regular intervals. For a balanced look, use the same pocket height across the curtain.
- Hang the curtains: Attach the hooks to the rings on your pole or the gliders on your track. Start at one end and work across, making sure the spacing is even.
- Arrange the pleats: Once hung, smooth and adjust the pleats by hand so they fall neatly.
Common issues and how to fix them
If the curtains look uneven, it may be because the cords weren’t gathered evenly – loosen and re-pull them until the folds match. Gaps between curtains often mean not enough hooks were used, so try adding a few more. If the curtains drag on the floor, check the placement of the pole or track and adjust the hook height on the heading tape if possible.
When to consider professional help
While many people manage pencil pleat curtains themselves, wide windows, heavy fabrics, or awkward recesses can make things trickier. If you’d prefer a flawless finish without the fuss, specialists like Kelly’s Blinds can measure, supply, and fit your curtains for you. This way you’ll know they’ll hang evenly and look their best straight away.
What to do next
Once fitted, pencil pleat curtains bring a timeless, elegant touch to your home. If you’d like to refresh your space, take a look at the collection of Pencil Pleat Curtains, where you’ll find a wide choice of fabrics, colours, and finishes to complement your décor.
FAQ – How to Fit Pencil Pleat Curtains?
How do I know how much to gather the pleats?
As a guide, pencil pleat curtains are usually gathered to about half their original width, but you can adjust depending on the fullness you prefer.
Do pencil pleat curtains work with both poles and tracks?
Yes – the hooks can attach to curtain rings on a pole or gliders on a track.
Why do my curtains look uneven after hanging?
It’s often because the cords weren’t pulled evenly. Re-adjust the gathering and smooth the pleats by hand.
