Types of Drapery Headings

When it comes to custom drapery, one impactful decision homeowners and designers should always consider is the type of heading that will best suit the project. At Savannah Window Fashions, we understand that drapery headings are much more than a decorative element, with benefits that include enhanced functionality and aesthetics.

There are many styles of drapery headings, each suited for particular drapery types and applications, and as experts in drapery design and fabrication, we help you select the right style for your needs and vision. We can even create custom pleats to perfectly match specialized window treatments when necessary.

Pinch Pleats

Pinch pleats are a classic and versatile pleat style, working beautifully in many drapery applications. The pinching technique gathers and tightly secures the fabric into uniform folded sections, allowing them to stack evenly. At the same time, the tautness and regular spacing enable smooth operation of the traversing rods.

Common pinch pleat variations include three prong pinch pleats (the standard with three vertical tacks for crisp, defined folds), top tacked (an alternative secured only at the top hem for beautiful flow when opened), and two prong top tacked (a hybrid with two top tacks for soft stacking folds).

Goblet & Cartridge Pleats

If your design calls for a more traditional approach, consider goblet and cartridge pleats, which offer formal appeal.

Featuring rounded, tubular folds that cascade elegantly, these pleats create a sophisticated and structured look, making them ideal for traditional spaces. Goblet pleats are formed by pinching the bottom.

During a recent restoration, we had the opportunity to craft historically accurate window treatments and bedding for the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters in the heart of Savannah. You can read about this project here and see more of the cartridge pleats that add to the charm of the upstairs children’s suite.

Box Pleats

Box pleats offer a clean and tailored appearance, often seen in stationary panels meant solely to frame the window. But box pleats can be customized to accommodate your style and design requirements, as seen in this functional box pleat treatment our team designed and fabricated for a project featured in Savannah Magazine.

Ripplefold

For a terraced, cascading effect, ripplefold drapery are a favorite among those seeking a contemporary and chic window treatment solution that provides optimal light control and insulation. This trending technique can be complicated, requiring an experienced workroom partner. However, the results are spectacular—evident in this Savannah penthouse, where we recently installed stunning motorized ripplefold panels in epic proportions. You can see more of that project here.

The look and success of your window treatments depend on choosing proper drapery heading. When you partner with Savannah Window Fashions, you can trust that our team will work with you to find that perfect pleat, whether it’s a common application or a custom design.

We specialize in providing expert advice and guidance for all the decisions that go into your window treatments. Our full-service project management approach means we handle all the details for you with precision and care, from design, to measurements, fabrication, and professional installation. Let’s talk soon so we can get started on your project.