Eyelet, Pencil Pleat or Tab Top — What Do Curtain Header Types Mean?
The header is how a curtain attaches to its pole or track and shapes how it hangs. Eyelet headers have metal rings that thread directly onto a pole for a relaxed, uniform fold; pencil pleat uses a gathered tape pulled to create tight, even pleats and usually needs hooks; tab top and pinch pleat are other common styles, each giving a different amount of fullness and drape.
Understanding curtain header types is key to achieving the desired look and feel in any room. The choice significantly impacts how your curtains drape and the overall aesthetic – a simple eyelet header offers a clean, modern style with minimal fuss, ideal for lighter fabrics like voile or linen. Pencil pleat headers, on the other hand, create a more formal appearance, best suited to heavier materials like velvet or damask where a tighter, more structured fold is desired. When selecting curtains, carefully consider the fabric weight and room size; a heavy curtain with an eyelet header in a small room might appear overly bulky. UK shoppers often misjudge the required pole diameter for pencil pleat headers – ensure your pole is wide enough to accommodate the gathered tape without binding or bunching. Also, pay close attention to the ‘header length’ listed on the product description; this refers to the distance from the curtain header to the bottom hem and directly affects the finished look.
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FAQ
What does 'header length' actually mean?+
‘Header length’ is the measurement from the top of the curtain header (the eyelets or pleats) down to the bottom edge of the fabric. This is crucial as it determines how much ‘fall’ your curtains will have, influencing their drape and how they hang on the window – a longer header allows for more fullness.
How does the material affect my header choice?+
Lighter fabrics like linen or voile generally look best with simple eyelet headers as they won't be weighed down. Heavier materials, such as velvet or blackout curtains, require pencil pleat or pinch pleat headers to maintain their shape and prevent sagging.
What size pole do I need for an eyelet curtain?+
Eyelet curtains typically use a standard 25mm diameter pole. However, always check the product description as some manufacturers may specify a slightly larger diameter (32mm or even 40mm) to accommodate the rings and ensure smooth operation.
Why do pencil pleat curtains sometimes need hooks?+
The gathered tape in pencil pleat headers needs hooks to be securely fixed to the pole. These hooks grip the tape, pulling it taut to create the neat, even pleats – without them, the pleats will loosen and lose their shape.
Are pinch pleat curtains more expensive?+
Generally, pinch pleat headers are more complex to manufacture than eyelet or tab top headers, which is why they tend to be slightly pricier. However, prices vary depending on the fabric and retailer; always compare options before purchasing.
What’s the difference between a ‘tab top’ and a ‘pinch pleat’?+
Tab tops have simple loops or tabs that hang onto the pole, creating a relaxed drape, while pinch pleats use a more intricate gathering mechanism to create a formal, pleated effect – think of it as the level of structure.
How do I measure for pencil pleat curtains?+
Measure from the top of the header (where the tape sits) to the bottom hem. Add approximately 15-20cm for ‘fall’ – this allows the fabric to hang naturally and prevents a tight, unflattering appearance.
Can I change the header type after buying curtains?+
Changing the header type on existing curtains can be difficult and often requires professional curtain fitting. It’s generally much easier to select curtains with the correct header style from the outset – consider this when making your purchase.
What does a ‘fullness factor’ refer to in relation to curtains?+
The fullness factor describes how much wider the curtain fabric needs to be than the width of the window. A 2:1 fullness means the curtain should be twice as wide as the window, creating ample drapes and a luxurious look – this often dictates the header type needed.
I’ve bought curtains with an eyelet header, but they're bunching up! What have I done wrong?+
The most common issue is using a pole that isn't wide enough to accommodate the eyelets. Also, ensure you’re not pulling the fabric too tightly as this can cause the gathers to loosen; gently adjust the fabric for a balanced hang.