List of Curtains and Drapes Panel Styles

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Before you go about decorating your windows with curtains or drapes, you’ll first want to assess your options. Here’s a quick look at a few examples of window coverings for you to take advantage of.

Tab-Top Panels

Because tab-top panels are connected via loops to the top of a valance’s seam, they work perfectly for showcasing fabric prints and patterns. If you have a home boasting a cottage or country ambiance, then these types of panels will work well. Do keep in mind, though, that these coverings can be a bit difficult to draw to the side, thus being the reason they are usually stationary.

Panel Curtains with Rings

When it comes to moving curtains or drapes from side to side, having them connected to rings on a curtain rod is an excellent solution. Better yet, the rings themselves are available in just about any finish, design and color. If you’re looking for a quick and simple way to add sparkle to a room, then you’ll definitely want to install curtains or drapes connected to rings. You can find curtains already connected to the rings, or if you prefer, you can hand-tack the fabric to rings yourself. Since the curtains are easy to move to the side, they work perfectly over sliding or French doors that endure heavy traffic.

Rod-Pocket Panels

These types of curtains or drapes have a pocket at the top through which a curtain rod slips through. If you’re looking for the curtains to have a ruffled look at the top, then you’ll want the fabric to fit rather tightly around the rod. You’ll also want to make sure that the pocket the rod slips through is several inches down from the top of the curtains. Many people who use these window treatments choose to tie the curtains or drapes to the side using decorative tie-backs.

Pleated Panels

Just about any type of curtain can be pleated, meaning the header tape is sewed into the curtains in a way in which it causes the fabric to pleat when pulled together. Hooks or rings are hung at the top of the curtains, which then hang on the curtain rod. A cord-and-pulley system is used to open and close the panels. These types of window coverings are available in many styles, including:

  • Pencil pleats
  • Tuxedo pleats
  • Pinch pleat
  • Cartridge pleats
  • Goblet pleat

The next time you go about decorating your windows, remember that your options are wide open.