Pinch Pleated DrapesPinch
pleated drapes offer a formal look to your draperies. Rather
than have the drapes gathered at the ends randomly and open to
a straight fabric, pinch pleated drapes have pleats that run
vertically down the drapes. The pleats are spaced at intervals
to control the fullness of the drapes. Even when the drapes
are fully drawn closed, the pleats still exist. |
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A natural benefit of pinch pleated drapes is added
insulation. The pleats add additional airspace between the drapes to
offer more insulation. During the hot summer months, your room will
be cooler and during the cold winter months, your room will stay
warmer with pinch pleated drapes than with drapes that stretch
straight made of the same material. Typically, pinch pleated drapes
are made of a heavier material than sheer curtains or silk drapes.
Many offer insulated thermal or blackout linings as well.
Most pinch pleated drapes install as the outer most layer of
window coverings. It is common to have another inner layer
consisting of sheer curtains or shades. The inner layer is for
moderating light during the day to make the window translucent,
creating privacy while letting light in. The outer layer is
typically used to darken the room or for insulation purposes. When
deciding on the inner layer of window coverings make sure you pick a
material that will not clash with the look of your pinch pleated
drapes. For example, you may want to choose a much lighter color
shade or sheer curtain than your pinch pleated drapes. Also, you
probably don¡¯t want to have two pinch pleated window treatments
layered. Therefore, shades that open up and down are a good
combination with pleated drapes.
Think of the pinch pleated
look as similar to that of a nice ironed shirt. It¡¯s more formal and
even. Unlike silk drapes that may have less form, pleated drapes are
typically made of stiffer cloth to keep the shape. Otherwise, the
function of pinch pleated drapes is generally similar to those of
other materials such as silk or velvet. As with purchasing any
draperies, make sure you do your research and understand the
materials that you have chosen. If you decide to buy online, make
sure you have visited a fabric store to understand how various
fabrics feel and function.
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