Pencil Pleat Curtains
Softly gathered and endlessly versatile – the classic curtain heading.
A Beloved, Timeless Style
Pencil pleat curtains are softly gathered and endlessly versatile – they are the classic curtain heading. At McKenzie & Willis, we offer a range of pencil pleat curtain designs, custom tailored to suit your home. Browse our design ideas below and book a consultation with us today.
How to Choose the Right Heading Style
Choosing the right curtain heading isn’t just about aesthetics—it influences how your curtains sit, move, and interact with your space. While many fabrics are versatile across styles, a few thoughtful decisions will help ensure the finish is just right.
Typically requiring 80–120% fullness (and 100–150% for sheers), this style brings softness and volume to a space. Pencil pleats tend to require more space when drawn open than some other headings, making them well-suited to rooms where a more decorative finish is desired.
They can also be made with an extra-deep 150mm tape for an elongated look and are compatible with both rods and tracks.
Visual Aesthetic & Style
The heading style plays a key role in the overall look of your curtains. Whether you prefer a clean, modern finish or something more decorative and full, the heading helps define how the curtains sit and complement the surrounding space.
Fullness & Fabric Volume
Fullness refers to how much fabric is used to create the body and shape of your curtains. It influences both the way they drape and the final finish—whether softly gathered or more tailored. Some styles and spaces suit a more generous, voluminous look, while others benefit from a sleeker, more understated effect. Choosing the right fullness helps ensure your curtains feel in harmony with the scale and style of your interior.
Track or Rod Compatibility
Certain heading styles are better suited to specific hardware—like decorative rods, S-fold tracks, or concealed systems. The style you choose may depend on whether you want the track to be a visible design feature or subtly hidden from view.
Other Heading Style Options
Take a Look Inside Our Curtains Workroom
Whether you need curtains for a single room or your entire home, our workroom ensures that each curtain & blind is expertly crafted, for the perfect fit every time.
On-site at our Christchurch showroom, our team of sewers and makers will bring your vision to life, sewing each thread with care and precision.
Book a Curtains & Blinds Consultation
Book a complimentary consultation to discuss your curtains and blinds needs, we'll help you with the details ensuring you receive the perfect fit and functions for your interior.