Ripplefold curtains are typically measured in two ways, Height and Width. The Height is measured from the top of the track to the bottom of the fabric, allowing for a specific “drop length”. The Width is calculated by taking into account the total track length plus any additional headings, such as a theater box heading or swags, plus 6-8 inches.
The fabric typically hangs approximately 1” off the ground, so this also should be taken in to consideration when measuring. When measuring for Ripplefold curtains, it is recommended to add an extra 6-9” of fabric above and below the track, giving the drapery a full, plush look.
Additionally, the curtains should be allowed room to puddle so that when they are drawn they look full and customized to your space.
What does Ripplefold fullness mean?
Ripplefold fullness is a type of drapery style. It refers to the the amount of fabric used to create pleats on a drapery panel, giving it fullness and texture when it’s hung from a pole or track. Ripplefold fullness can range from light (for a casual, relaxed look) to fullness that creates a heavier, more formal look.
It’s achieved by using more of the drapery fabric to create pleats, which are then connected at the bottom with pockets that slip over a traverse rod. Ripplefold draperies are an excellent choice for projects that require a fullness not achievable by simply hanging the fabric.
By having carefully spaced, evenly distributed pleats, these draperies can provide an elegant, uncluttered look. A small amount of gathering at the bottom allows the fabric to pool softly, giving the appearance of a luxurious but tailored design.
How is fullness of drapery calculated?
Fullness of drapery is the measure of how gathered or full of fabric the drapery is. It is calculated in terms of fabric width per panel—the more fabric required per panel, the fuller the drapery. Generally, it is calculated by taking the total fabric required (in yards) divided by the width of the fabric plus the fullness, multiplied by 100.
It is important to keep in mind that fullness helps to create a professional look, while too much fullness can create a sloppy look. To accurately measure the fullness, the length of each drapery panel should be measured, as well as the width of the fabric, to determine the desired fullness.
To achieve a fullness factor of 1.5x, the total fabric required would be 1.5 times the width of the fabric plus the length of the drapery panels. For example, if the fabric width is 54 inches and the drapery length is 96 inches, the total fabric required would be 1.
5 times 54 inches, plus 96 inches, for a total of 186 inches (or 5.41 yards). Once the desired fullness factor has been determined and the fabric required has been calculated, this information can be used to determine the total amount of fabric needed for the drapery project.
What does fullness mean in drapery?
Fullness in drapery refers to the degree to which the fabric is gathered or pleated. Depending on the desired effect, drapery fullness can range from flat folds to barely visible puckers to luxurious billowing folds.
Generally, the more fullness in a drapery, the more luxurious the effect. Increasing the fabric fullness also increases the amount of fabrication and energy needed for production, thereby raising the final cost of the product.
When selecting a drapery fabric, designers must consider the body and drape of each textile option—which can vary dramatically. Comparatively, heavier fabrics require more fullness and lighter fabrics can accommodate less fullness.
Additionally, fullness will vary based on how far back the drapes are supposed to hang—which is typically two and one-half times the width of the window.
Whether you are looking for a sleek contemporary look or more of a romantic design, fullness can be adjusted to complement any style of decor. For a more tailored, uncluttered look, use a tighter fullness with no or minimal pleating.
If you are creating a more layered, traditional style, increase the fullness for additional panels and more noticeable pleating. Ultimately, selecting the proper fullness for your drapery will help create the desired aesthetic for any room.
What is Ripplefold drapery?
Ripplefold drapery, also known as S fold or Soft fold drapery, is a curtain treatment that is increasingly popular among interior designers and homeowners. Traditionally, curtains and drapery panels have been hung on a single track, but ripplefold drapery takes a more angular approach, creating waves of fabric as the panels fold and ripple.
The fabric is held together in uniform folds by carriers that are attached to a track system and draped across the window. Ripplefold drapery allows for the fabric to take on a more dramatic, full effect, while still providing ample privacy and light control.
Achieving this effect requires that the drapery be hung on multiple tracks and the fabric to be stretched tautly between ‘carriers’, connected to a track system. The style lends itself to a modern aesthetic, with chic, dynamic waves of fabric that create a sense of texture and movement within the space.
Ripplefold drapes also increase the functionality of curtains and can be tied back or draped neatly on the sides of the window, letting in maximum light when desired. They come in a variety of different fabrics and colors, making them the perfect option for creating unique interior designs that are stylish and functional.
What is the fullness for curtains?
The fullness for curtains is a measure of the amount of fabric used to make them. Generally, fullness is expressed as a percentage: if a panel is 1 ½ times as wide as the window, it has a fullness of 150%.
As fullness increases, so does the amount of fabric used and, therefore, the amount of light and privacy the curtains will provide. You can choose from different levels of fullness, depending on your needs.
A low fullness, typically around 80% – 100%, is best for lightweight fabrics and gives a more airy and casual look. A higher fullness, usually above 120%, looks fuller and is more suitable for pleated curtains or heavier fabrics.
With a more fullness, more fabric is used, providing greater light and sound filtration and insulation. Of course, the more fabric that is used, the more costly the curtains become. Therefore, it is important to determine the perfect fullness level for your needs and budget.
How much fullness do you need for wave curtains?
The amount of fullness you need for wave curtains depends on the size of the window and the style of the fabric. Generally, you want 1.5-2.5 times more fabric than the width of the window to achieve a nice, full look.
For example, if your window is 48 inches wide, you would want 72-120 inches of fabric per curtain panel. If you prefer a less dramatic look, you can opt for 1.2-1.5 times more fabric than the window width.
For heavier fabrics such as velvet, more fullness may be needed to achieve a soft and luxurious drape. Additionally, if your window has no additional support structures, like drapes or a valance, more fullness will be needed for the curtains to hang properly and appear fuller.
What is the difference between pinch pleat and Ripplefold?
Pinch pleat and Ripplefold are two types of curtains that are often used as window treatments.
Pinch pleat is a popular style of curtain, in which multiple folds are created when the fabric is pulled together at the top of the panel and stitched in place in neat, evenly sized pleats. This style of curtain is well suited to both modern and traditional interiors.
It is effective for a range of window sizes, and available in a variety of fabrics. It tends to be best suited for larger windows, as the multiple pleats create a fuller, denser look.
Ripplefold is a more modern style of curtain, created by routing a track in the top of the panel and threading tape through it. The fabric is then gathered onto the tape, with folds created from the gathering process as the panel opens.
This style of curtain is suitable for contemporary interiors and a range of window sizes, but is most effective for large expanses of windows. It offers a sleek, streamlined appearance, with the fabric forming gentle waves when part or fully open.
How does Ripplefold work?
Ripplefold, also known as wavefold, is a type of drapery treatment in which fabric is used to create a wave-like effect by means of pleating. Ripplefold drapery has a smooth look as the pleats move along the track of the drapery rod.
Ripplefold drapery is designed to create a design where the pleats will open and close along the track of the rod, while still maintaining their wave-like appearance. The fabric of the drapes is folded and the pleats are created by the rings and carriers that move along the curtain track.
This creates soft, neat pleats settled into a deep wave resembling a rippling pond. The pleats move with the drapery rod when it is opened or closed, creating an interesting and eye-catching effect. The drapery is attached to the track by sliding the fabric along the top of the track, allowing the pleats to fall naturally when the rod is moved.
Ripplefold drapery is a great option for those looking to add some texture and movement to their windows.
How do I choose curtain fullness?
Choosing the right curtain fullness for your windows depends entirely on the size of the window and the window treatment style you are going for. Generally speaking, the fuller the curtain, the more luxurious the look.
However, a lot of times window treatments become visually overwhelming if they are too full and this can detract from the overall look of the room.
When choosing the right fullness for your curtains, measure the length of the entire window including the hardware. Decide how much fullness you want and divide the total number of inches in half. This is the total number of inches you’ll need when looking for a pair of curtains.
In general, a sheer fabric may require a fullness ratio of around 1.5, a lightweight drapery 2.2, and a medium weight drapery 4.0. Additionally, heavier fabrics, such as velvet, may require a fullness ratio of 6.1.
It is essential that curtains be evenly balanced, so when measuring for the fullness, you should make sure to measure both curtains in the same way and measure from the same place on the curtain to ensure an even fullness ratio.
At the end of the day, it is important to find a balance between the size of the window, the type of fabric, and the fullness you are looking for. Figuring out the right fullness ratio is an essential part of making sure your window treatments look the way you want them to.
How full should curtains be when closed?
Curtains should be full and completely closed when the curtains are drawn. This allows for the most coverage and insulation from light, sound and air infiltration. In most cases, the curtains should cover the entire length of the window, from the top trim to the baseboard below the window.
If you have very wide windows, you may need two panels to provide adequate coverage when they are closed. To ensure full coverage every time you draw your curtains, you should hang the panels wide enough that they are slightly past the sides of the windows.
This will also give the illusion of a larger window when the curtains are open. Finally, be sure to hang the curtains on a decorative rod or finial that has a sufficient size or length to give ample fullness and pleats when the curtains are drawn.
How is Ripplefold calculated?
Ripplefold calculations typically involve several measurements to ensure the drapery panels hang correctly. The first step is to measure the total width of the window and determine the size of the drapery panels.
The size of the pleats should then be calculated in relation to the width of the window. Ripplefold calculations also include determining the number of wand passes that are needed and the location of the hook placement, which will depend on the wand passes and the exact pleat size.
Additionally, determining the gap between the front and back of the tracks is important. This calculation requires the measurement of the hook height, hook set back, and the total height of the tracks.
Finally, the calculations should include determining the weight of the drapery panel, which will ensure that the fabric falls in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
What is the most modern curtain pleat?
The most modern curtain pleat is the inverted pleat. This pleat has a symmetrical fan shape and tucks neatly together at the top of the panel. It creates an illusion of a fuller curtain and also lifts the fabric at the top which adds a touch of sophistication.
The inverted pleat looks great when combined with a contemporary fabric. It works well in modern homes to add depth and interest to a window. It is also known as a French pleat or a goblet pleat, and is particularly popular in moderni-minimalism and smart urban living.
Are pinch pleat curtains out of style?
Pinch pleat curtains are not out of style, but the popularity of them has gone in and out throughout the years. They are timeless and classic, which is why you often see them in many homes and businesses.
They are best suited for formal occasions, as the pleats add structure, control and a more formal look. Despite this, modern, minimalistic designs have been embraced along with bold colors and designs, which is why some have thought that pinch pleats have become less popular.
Pinch pleat curtains still remain a popular choice depending on the look someone is going for, so they are certainly not completely out of style.
What is a French pleat?
A French pleat is a classic style of curtain heading that has been used in interior design for centuries. It is made up of a series of small pleats that are sewn together in a precise way to form an even, flattened surface.
The fabric is then held firmly in place with a header tape at the top.
The deep pleat design gives a classic look to any room, as the fabric falls in neat, evenly spaced folds from the header. French pleats are commonly used in living rooms, bedrooms, and formal dining rooms, although they can be used in any room.
They look best when hung on a pole, with the fabric flowing onto the floor.
French pleats are easy to care for, simply requiring a light dusting from time to time and an occasional vacuuming. In addition to their classic look, they’re also great for controlling the amount of light and noise coming into a room.
Because the pleats are stitched in place, they can be opened or closed to control the amount of light entering the space.
Overall, a French pleat is a timeless design that has stood the test of time in interior design. The even, precise folds of the pleat look sophisticated in any setting, and their ability to filter light and noise makes them a great choice for any room.
What are the different types of pleated curtains?
Pleated curtains are created with fabric that has been gathered in several ways to help control light and keep a room insulated. Each offering unique benefits and aesthetics.
Pinch pleats are the most traditional and common type of pleats. These pleats come in different sizes, with three-finger pinch pleats being the most popular. As the name suggests, the fabric is gathered into three pleats which are sown on the top of the curtains, allowing for adjustable fullness.
Goblet pleats are similar to pinch pleats but use an inverted V shape for each pleat. They offer an elegant, decorative look, and can be further accentuated with tie-backs for a luxurious finish.
French pleats and box pleats are two simple yet beautiful pleats that can be done at home with basic sewing skills and tools. French pleats are a double pleat at the top of the fabric while box pleats are pleats that are evenly spaced and folded in the middle.
Finally, cartridge pleats are a textured type of pleat that have a 3-D effect by using more fabric than other pleats. Cartridge pleats create fuller curtains and are often seen in formal settings.