Everything You Need to Know About Different Curtain Types

The most well-known curtain type is the pleated curtain. It is recognisable by its characteristic pleats.

The Difference Between a Single and a Double Pleat

Most curtains are offered with a single pleat. The main advantage of a single pleat is the lower price, because less fabric is used.

Single Pleat

Slimmer appearance when the curtain is open

The wave may occasionally skip a pleat

Lower cost due to less fabric usage

Double Pleat (Butterfly Pleat)

Fuller appearance when the curtain is open

The wave at the bottom falls beautifully

Better pleat retention due to more fabric

The hook stays in place better thanks to mutual support of the two folds

The Pleat Allowance

The difference between a single and double pleat is clearly visible. A curtain with double pleats looks 'fuller' and has more fabric at the bottom. The advantage of more fabric at the bottom is that the curtain pleats better — the wave motion of a pleated curtain with a double pleat holds its shape better. A curtain with single pleats may pull the wave slightly out of shape, because it has less fabric.

The Header (Hook)

The header of a pleated curtain sits behind the pleat. You could also call the header the plastic hook. An advantage of a double pleat is that the header stays in place better, because the two folds in one double pleat support each other. With a single pleat, some pleats may fall to the side, because a single fold has no support and tends to go its own way.

Front of Rail vs Under the Rail

Front of the Rail

The most blackout-effective option for bedrooms

Header size 2 (the distance from the hook to the top of the curtain)

Under the Rail

Required for a return pleat

Header size 0 (the distance from the hook to the top of the curtain)

The newest curtain type is the wave curtain. It is recognisable by its smooth, even wave. A true wave curtain has a pleat allowance of 2.3, meaning 2.3 metres of fabric is used for every 1 metre of curtain.

Wave Rails

Because the wave curtain hangs under the rail — not in front of it like a pleated curtain — the wave pleat offers more rail variation possibilities. For a curtain that hangs under the rail, it is possible to use a thick profile (such as the DS-XL), which is impossible with a pleated curtain.

DS-XXL Rail

Wider base under the curtain

Wider base under the curtain

Larger dimensions

Ceiling bracket falls below the profile

DS Rail

Slim base under the curtain

Slim base under the curtain

Smaller dimensions

Mounting brackets are visible at the back of the rail

Rail Compatibility

This curtain type is relatively new and requires a special curtain rail. The rail is recognisable by its flat interior.

✕G-rail — Not suitable for wave

✓KS-rail — Suitable for wave

Runners

The difference is caused by the different runners used. A wave curtain needs a runner that can rotate in the rail. The correct rotating runners are supplied as standard. These correct runners could theoretically be hung on an incompatible G-rail, but they would wear out quickly because the inner edge of the G-rail is sharp.

G-rail — Not suitable for wave

KS-rail — Suitable for wave

Technical Construction

The wave curtain has a specific technical construction where the fabric folds into even waves. The pleat allowance of 2.3 ensures a consistent wave pattern across the full width of the curtain.

The curtain with the most luxurious appearance is the one with eyelet rings hanging from a rod. The rod and eyelet rings can be made from various materials, directly influencing the style.

Matte black gives a tough, modern look. Brass rings and rod lend a classic appearance. Matte nickel creates a contemporary feel. The curtains with eyelet rings made by De Gordijnfabriek feature a clever, unobtrusive system that lets the curtain glide smoothly without the rings catching on the rod.