Pleated Panels from a SCL Design Project
Pleated panels are my “go to” treatment style when I want to make a simple, but elegant statement. The pleated drapery panel creates a long and lovely line as it hangs from the top of the window to the floor. It frames the window and does not overpower. It adds warmth, but not bulk and works well with plain or patterned fabrics. It is a winner.
The pleated drapery panel can be stationary and installed on a decorative rod with rings. This treatment requires less fabric and does not close to cover the whole window, but still has the appearance of doing so. Pleated panels can also be functional and cover the whole window if you so wish. The panels open and close on a traverse drapery rod, with hooks or rings. Either way, the effect is the same–beautiful!
I often add a decorative trim, such as a flat tape, on the inside vertical hemline This accentuates the long, lean line of the panels and gives them definition. It is like wearing eyeliner to make your eyes pop! This trim can be sewn right at the edge of the panel or inset an inch or two from the edge. The inside hemline on long panels can fold slightly inward, especially if the first pleat is close to the edge. Applying the trim an inch or two off the hemline insures that it will not be lost in a fold.
There are many different types of pleats. Here are a few of my favorites:
- * Goblet pleat — This pleat looks like an open goblet or wine glass. It is lovely and formal. Very important to note, the goblet pleat requires a stiff batten type of lining to help hold its shape.
- * French pleat — This is the classic pinch pleat and is constructed by forming 2, 3 or 4 inch “fingers”, pinching them to form a fan shape. Drapery pins are then attached behind the pleat to hang it from the rod.
- * Tailored pleat — I love this pleat. It is updated and, as the name suggests, tailored. The fabric is pinched at the top and the folds fall below. The result is soft and sophisticated.
detailed view of a Goblet Pleated Panel
detailed view of a tailored pleated panel from a SCL Design Project
Tailored Pleated Panels with trim from a SCL Design Project