Fullness can be manufactured into a drape using a variety of different kinds of pleats or shirring. It can also be “hung in” using Ripplefold (i.e., roll-pleats) or Pipe and Grommet.
Box Pleats
Box pleats create a tailored look and are the most common way to add fullness to a drape. Attachment hardware is placed in the center of each pleat. Typically, drapes are pleated on 12” centers.
Shirring
Most successful in fabrications with 150% - 200% fullness. Used with light to medium weight fabrics or sheers. Shirring produces a soft, even fullness.
Knife Pleats
This treatment gives a less tailored look than a box pleat, yet a crisper look than shirring. Like shirring, it distributes the fullness evenly across the width of the drape.
Pinch Pleats
Pinch pleats are the most decorative heading. They are often used in front of house locations or windows. They’re normally installed with drapery hooks.
Ripplefold Curtain
Ripplefold curtains have roll pleats with 120% fullness. Snap tape is sewn to the top of a flat drape and then attach it to a Ripplefold track. Best when used with light or medium weight fabrics. Often used for commercial applications or contemporary interiors.
Pipe & Grommet
Large grommets are evenly spaced on a flat curtain that’s made wider than the opening it will cover. Fullness is then created as the drape is gathered when installed on a pipe.
