Pencil pleat curtains
Pencil pleat curtains are drawn up on a tape into small, even gathers. See how they hang, what they need and which rooms they suit.
What it is
A tape about 7.5 cm deep is sewn across the top, and cords draw it up into narrow, tight gathers.
Looks and hangs like
The top is a band of small, even pleats, and the folds below are softer and larger.
The tape can be set down to leave a ruffle on top, up to about 5 cm.
Makers call it classic and timeless.
Suits
Pencil pleat is a standard heading that suits most rooms.
Window.co.za names it for bedrooms and sheers.
Fabric and layers
Pencil pleat takes about 2.0 to 2.5 times the track width in cloth. The maker sets the exact figure.
Sheers show well in pencil pleat and wave.
What to check at fitting
It hangs from a track or a pole.
There is about one hook for every 10 cm of finished width, and the first sits about 5 cm from the edge.
The open curtains take up about a quarter of the track.
Measuring
Measure for a track or a pole, step by step.
Sources
Written by Sill from makers' fitting guides and published safety guidance, and last read on 18 October 2026. Sources are listed below.