What Is Drapery Training?

Drapery training is a method that teaches curtains to hold their shape. Once shaped, the folds stay consistent instead of drifting apart over time. This method keeps the fabric looking crisp both when opened and closed.

Beige curtains on a wooden floor with a gray wall background

Why Choose Trained Drapes at SmartView Homes?

Keeps folds looking uniform

Works especially well with thicker fabrics that benefit from an established shape

Reduces daily adjusting

Gives a structured, clean finish to living rooms, dining rooms, and formal spaces

Some people notice the difference right away. Others only realize it later when they see their curtains still hanging neatly after months of use.

Modern living room with a beige sofa, armchair, and decorative elements.

How We Train the Fabric

  1. Each panel is placed into a shaping form that sets the intended fold pattern.
  2. The panels rest in position inside specialized racks.
  3. Heat and steam are applied for a set period.
  4. Once finished, the fabric holds the new structure and is ready to hang.

Note: You should also know that the drapery holds its form and shape up to 5 washes. After the 5th time they’re washed, they might lose their form.

Beige curtain hanging in a room with a chair and side table.

Size limits

Not every curtain size is compatible with the process. Extra-large or extra-short panels may fall outside the workable range. Contact our support team if you're unsure.

White curtains in a bedroom with a green wall, bed, nightstand, and abstract art.

Header styles

Some headers are not suitable. Rod pockets, grommets, tab tops, and certain hook styles already force the fabric into a fixed pattern. These options usually skip training entirely.

Beige curtains hanging in a room with a chair and lamp.

After arrival

Shipping can create light wrinkles. Hang your panels soon after delivery and use gentle steam only if you notice creasing. Avoid holding steam in one spot for too long.

Navy blue curtains in a bedroom with a bed and lamp.

Fabric memory during transport

The shaping holds very well. We pack the curtains in a way that protects the structure instead of crushing it.

Quick Summary

Trained drapery keeps its pleats, looks tidy with little effort, and gives windows a more refined look over time. Once shaped, the fabric behaves the way it was meant to. That means fewer adjustments and a more consistent appearance day after day.

FAQs

Yes. Once the folds are set, the fabric develops a kind of memory. With normal use, the shape stays stable for a long time.

Not always. Some header styles already lock the fabric into a fixed form. Extra-large sizes may also fall outside the workable range.

Only if you see visible creases, hang them first and wait a day. If any marks remain, use light steam while keeping the tool moving.

No. The method uses controlled conditions that suit standard drapery fabrics. If you have a rare or unusual material, ask before ordering.

In most cases, you will not need to. If the fabric loses shape after years of use, a professional can repeat the process.