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Pencil Pleat Calculator — Tape & Fabric

Calculate fabric and tape for pencil pleat curtain headings.

Full track or pole length

Track to hem position

0 for plain fabric

15cm for double 7.5cm hem

How We Calculate This

Pencil pleat curtains use heading tape that draws up into even, closely packed folds. Fabric quantity depends on fullness ratio and the heading tape width determines the heading allowance.

The formula

Total width = Track width × Fullness ratio

Fabric widths = ceil(Total width ÷ Fabric width)

Heading allowance = Tape width + 3cm

Cut drop = Drop + Hem + Heading allowance

Tape = Fabric widths × Fabric width + 10cm

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.