Drapery Panel Styles: A Primer

A lot of focus is put on drapery fabrics, but when you are choosing your window treatments, the panel style is very important too. While one panel style may look pretty, you have to consider how it is going to work with your décor, the desired sheerness, and their durability.

As you work with your designer, they may help you by steering you to certain styles, but if you are doing your own decorating, then this information should help you.

Here’s what you need to know.

Pleated Drapery Panels

These are one of the more popular panel styles, partly because it is so versatile. It can be tailored to fit a wide range of décor styles from classic to modern – depending on the type of pleat that you select. And it’s all about the pleat.

If your drapes will be opened and closed frequently, a pleated style is not likely to disappoint.

A pinch pleat lends a classic, sophisticated look and is fabulous on longer drapes while the inverted pleat gives a more contemporary vibe. There are so many options you can choose from when you go with a pleated style and they work great with lightweight fabrics or heavy fabrics.

Tab Top Drapery Panels

Drapes that tend to be stationary, or not opened and closed a lot, do quite well with a tab top style. These drapery panels are suspended with fabric loops. They are not as formal and have a more casual air with a flat profile that is easy and relaxed. They are easy to hang and easy to maintain, depending on the fabric.

Grommet Top Drapery Panels

Grommet top drapery panels bring a modern look to the space. A rod is run through the top portion of the drapes so that they have a very organic feel in the way they fall with gentle folds depending on how they are situated on the rod. You can open and close grommet panels but experts advise doing so sparingly because it can put stress on the fabric and increase wear and tear.

Rod Pocket Drapery Panels

Rod pocket panels are very good for window treatments that are decorative as opposed to functional. The rod runs through a pocket created at the top of the panel and the fabric tends to be bunched on the rod, giving it a bit of fullness from top to bottom. It is especially good for long drapes because you can get the bunching and gathering from top to bottom and it’s a very nice, romantic effect. They are also very effective for light control and privacy. However, they are best as stationary drapes. If you open and close your drapes a lot, then are likely not for you.

If you are looking for drapes for your space, Valley Drapery & Upholstery has the styles and selection that you need to create your best space. Visit our showroom, browse our site, or make an appointment with one of our designers to transform a single room or your entire home into something you’ll love to come home to.