The heading is how a curtain attaches to its pole, and it changes the look of the window more than most people expect. The two most common are eyelet and ring-hung.
Eyelet curtains
Metal rings are set into the top of the fabric and the pole threads straight through them. There are no separate curtain rings.
The result is a regular, deep wave that repeats evenly across the window — clean, modern and quite architectural. Because the fabric sits directly on the pole, the heading is low-profile and the top of the curtain sits below the pole line.
Strengths. Very easy to hang and to take down for washing. The folds are consistent without dressing. Contemporary and uncluttered.
Limitations. The wave is fixed — you cannot adjust the fullness. Eyelets need a pole of the right diameter to run smoothly; too large and they bind, too small and the wave collapses. And they cannot be used on a track.
Best for. Modern rooms, straight windows, curtains drawn regularly, anywhere you want minimal fuss.
Ring-hung curtains
Curtain rings sit on the pole and the curtain hangs from them on hooks, usually with a pencil pleat, pinch pleat or wave heading tape.
The curtain hangs below the rings, so the heading is visible and the pole reads as a distinct feature. This is the traditional arrangement and it suits period rooms and more formal schemes.
Strengths. Far more choice of heading style, so you can control fullness and formality. Works with heavier and interlined curtains. Rings can be changed to alter the look. The pole itself stays visible as a design element.
Limitations. More components. Slightly more effort to take down. Rings can be audible on a metal pole.
Best for. Period properties, formal rooms, heavy or interlined curtains, and anywhere the pole is meant to be seen.
Practical differences
Stack. Eyelet curtains stack a little wider than pencil pleat because the wave is fixed. On a window with limited wall either side, that matters.
Drop. Measure differently. For eyelets, measure from the top of the pole, since the curtain sits over it. For rings, measure from the eye of the ring. Getting this wrong is the most common measuring error — see our Measuring Guide.
Pole diameter. Eyelets have a fixed internal diameter and must match your pole. Check the eyelet size against the pole before ordering.
Noise. Eyelets sliding on metal can be louder than wooden rings on a wooden pole. In a bedroom, worth a thought.
Which should you choose?
If the room is modern, the curtains are lightweight to medium, and you want something simple that always looks tidy — eyelet.
If the room is traditional, the curtains are heavy or interlined, or you want the pole and heading to be part of the design — rings.
Where to look
Browse Eyelet Poles and Rings & Gliders, or ask us if you are unsure which suits your curtains.