Custom Curtains: These Are the Types of Curtains, Fabrics, and Pleats

Having custom-made curtains offers quite a few options: what type of curtain, which fabric, and which pleat suits your space? In this article, we explain everything in plain language, so you are well-prepared for your appointment.

The Different Types of Curtains

There are several ways to cover your windows. Each type has its own look and functions slightly differently. Below are the four most chosen options.

Pleated Curtain

This is the classic curtain most people envision: fabric that hangs in neat, fixed pleats at the top and is hung on a track or rod with hooks. A pleated curtain slides open and closed and is available in almost any fabric and color. Further in this article, you can read more about the different pleats you can choose from.

Roman Blind

A Roman blind is a piece of fabric that is pulled up via cords and rings at the back. Instead of sliding sideways, the fabric folds neatly into horizontal pleats. Roman blinds often fit beautifully within the window frame and give a sleek, tidy appearance. They are available in both light-filtering and blackout versions.

Roller Blind

A roller blind is a piece of fabric wound around a roller tube. You roll the curtain up or down with a chain, or possibly electrically. Roller blinds have a sleek, minimalist look and take up little space. They are a popular choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, and office spaces.

Blinds

Blinds consist of horizontal or vertical slats made of wood, aluminum, or plastic. By tilting the slats, you can precisely control how much light enters without fully closing the curtain. This makes blinds ideal if you want to be able to switch between full privacy and still some light.

The Different Types of Fabric

Besides the type of curtain, the fabric is at least as crucial. The fabric determines how much light comes through, how much privacy you have, and how warm or cool the room feels.

Sheer curtains. This is the lightest and most transparent fabric available. Sheer curtains let in a lot of light and give your window a soft, atmospheric look during the day. Please note: sheer curtains offer little privacy in the dark when the lights are on inside. Therefore, sheer curtains are often combined with a thicker fabric such as a drapery.

Inbetween. As the name suggests, this fabric is in between. Inbetween is thicker and sturdier than sheer curtains, but still light-filtering. This gives you a subtle light incidence during the day and more privacy than with sheer curtains. A good middle ground for those who want not too much, but also not too little light.

Drapery. This is the common, somewhat thicker curtain fabric most often seen in Dutch living rooms. Drapery can be light-filtering for an atmospheric look, or opaque for more privacy and darkening. The drapery is usually the main decorative element of your window covering.

Dim out. Dim out fabric blocks most of the light, but not all. Think of it as an intermediate form between a regular drapery and fully darkening black-out fabric: the room becomes significantly dimmed, but not pitch dark. A good choice for the living room, where you want some calm but don't want to be completely in the dark.

Black-out. Black-out fabric is 100% light-proof thanks to a special coating or lining. Not a single ray of light penetrates, not even from streetlights or the early morning sun. Black-out curtains are the best choice for the bedroom, especially if you are sensitive to light or have irregular working hours.

The Different Types of Pleats

When you choose a pleated curtain, the pleat determines how the top of your curtain falls and looks. There are three popular variations.

Single pleat. This is the sleekest and most subtle pleat variant. The fabric falls in narrow, neat pleats right next to each other. Single pleat suits a modern, minimalist interior well.

Double pleat. The classic among pleats. With a double pleat, the fabric is folded twice per hook, making the curtain fuller and more voluminous. Double pleat has a timeless look and is still the most chosen option in the Netherlands.

Wave pleat. Also known as ripple fold. Here, the fabric runs in a flowing, even S-shape across the entire width of the window. Wave pleat creates a modern effect and is becoming increasingly popular in contemporary interiors. A special wave track is required for this pleat.

Curtain Finish

Curtains come with different types of finishes. Our curtains are standardly finished with a lead cord in the bottom hem.

This ensures that the curtain hangs beautifully straight and stays in place. The lead cord gives the curtain just that extra bit of weight, making sure the curtains hang neatly downwards.

In short: a lead cord is a small detail with a big effect on the appearance and lifespan of your curtains.

Would you like a different finish? This is possible; ask about the options during the consultation or via the button in the bottom right.

Bringing Everything Together During Your Appointment

With this basic knowledge, during your free measurement and consultation appointment, you can already think much more specifically about what best suits your space and living style. Still in doubt? No problem: our stylist will extensively discuss the possibilities with you during the visit and help you make the right choice based on your wishes, the light incidence in the room, and the atmosphere you want to create.