All About Ripplefold Style Curtains

Ripplefold style curtains are a contemporary and stylish choice for window treatments, offering a clean, modern look with soft, consistent folds. This guide will cover everything you need to know about ripplefold curtains, including what they are, their advantages over other header styles, suitable tracks, how to measure for them, and installation instructions.

What is Ripplefold Style Drapery?

Ripplefold style drapery is a type of curtain that uses a special track system to create smooth, even folds, resembling gentle waves. This style is popular for its sleek, modern appearance and functional benefits.

Unlike traditional pleated drapes, which often use hooks and rings, ripplefold curtains are attached to a track using carriers that maintain an even spacing. The standard market ratio for ripplefold drapery is typically 2.2 times the fabric fullness, but our curtains use a 2.5 times fullness ratio. This increased fabric fullness enhances the rippling effect, providing a more luxurious and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Advantages of Ripplefold Style Drapery Compared to Other Headers

Ripplefold style drapery offers several advantages over other header styles:

1. Uniform Folds: The evenly spaced folds create a clean, modern look that complements contemporary interiors.
2. Smooth Operation: The specialized track system allows for smooth and effortless opening and closing of the curtains.
3. Minimalist Design: Ripplefold curtains have a sleek, uncluttered appearance, making them ideal for minimalist decor.

Other header styles may have their own unique features and benefits. For a detailed comparison, you can refer to our guide: How to Choose Hanging Header Style.

Suitable Tracks for Ripplefold Curtains

To achieve the perfect S-shape of ripplefold curtains, it is essential to use specially designed tracks. Standard tracks are not compatible with ripplefold headers. When placing your order, please specify that you require a ripplefold header.

Ceiling-Mounted Tracks:

• • Aluminum Silent Curtain Tracks: Ideal for ceiling mounting, these tracks are extremely smooth and nearly invisible once installed, allowing the entire wall to appear as a continuous fabric surface.

Wall-Mounted Tracks:

• • Custom Cut Track Curtain Rods: These rods are suitable for side mounting and feature a downward-sliding track system, leaving only the Roman rod visible.

How to Measure Height and Width for Ripplefold Curtains

Proper measurements are crucial for ensuring your ripplefold curtains fit perfectly and function smoothly. Here’s how to measure:

For the Width:

We have simplified the process for you. Measure the total rail width you want to cover and enter these dimensions on our ripplefold custom page. There's no need to add extra fabric for fullness because our panels are designed with built-in fullness.

If you have the window width and want to know how wide the rod should be to clear the windows when the drapes are fully open, use our Rod Width Calculator.

For the Height:

• Ceiling Mount: For a just-above-the-floor look (most popular), measure the distance from the ceiling to the floor, then subtract 1.5" (1.0" for track clearance + 0.5" for floor clearance).
• Wall Mount: The wall bracket is 2.5" in height.
• Puddling Look: Add 2”-6” to the ceiling/wall bracket to floor length for a luxurious puddling effect.

A single layer ripplefold drape will take about 4.25" - 4.5" in depth depending on the fabric thickness. For a double layer ripplefold setup, the drapes will take up 8.5"-9" in depth.

How to Install Ripplefold Tracks

Proper installation ensures that your ripplefold curtains function smoothly and look their best. Follow these steps for ceiling and wall mount brackets:

For Ceiling Mount Brackets:

1. Measure: Measure the width of the track and mark the positions for the end brackets approximately 3”-4” in from the ends. Evenly space the remaining brackets and mark their positions.
2. Mount: Pre-drill holes for the screw diameter when mounting into the wood frame of the window or wall stud. If not mounting into wood, pre-drill and install anchors before fastening with screws.
3. Attach Bracket: Place the track into the bracket and apply pressure until the track “clicks” into place. Ensure the track set screw is loose enough to allow the track retainer to flex. Repeat for all brackets.
4. Tighten: Tighten the track set screws on all brackets to secure the track.

For Wall Mount Brackets:

1. Measure: Determine the height of the top of the track and mark the bracket height on the wall for all brackets. Adjust as necessary to ensure they are level.
2. Mark: Measure the width of the track and mark the positions for the end brackets approximately 3"-4" in from the ends. Evenly space the remaining brackets and mark their positions.
3. Mount: Pre-drill holes for the screw diameter when mounting into the wood frame of the window or wall stud. If not mounting into wood, pre-drill and install anchors before fastening with screws.
4. Attach Bracket: Place the track into the bracket and apply pressure until the track “clicks” into place. Ensure the track set screw is loose enough to allow the track retainer to flex. Repeat for all brackets.

Installing Splice (if multiple pieces):

For wide areas, tracks will be shipped in multiple pieces and will require a splice.

• Slide the track of the connecting ends on each track into the channel of the splice and butt the ends together.
• The tracks will snap together. Press together to confirm a tight fit.
• Secure with an additional screw.

Conclusion

Ripplefold style curtains offer a beautiful and functional window treatment option, perfect for modern and minimalist decor. With the right measurements and installation, they can transform any room into a stylish and elegant space. Whether you choose ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted tracks, our specially designed ripplefold systems ensure smooth operation and a sleek appearance.

For more information and to explore our range of ripplefold curtains and tracks, visit our website. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us.

By providing this comprehensive guide, we aim to make it easier for you to understand, choose, and install ripplefold style curtains, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your living spaces.