A pelmet is a fabric covered board, made from plywood and upholstered, which is fixed onto the front edge of a pelmet board or "shelf".  This shelf conceals the track upon which the curtains are hung.  Pelmets can be fitted to any shape of window and the design can easily be adapted to suit different windows and styles.  Stiff upholstered pelmets add instant elegance and style to a window.

Stiff pelmets are suitable for a full range of window treatments from the simple to the dramatic.  Depending on the shapes, fabrics and trims chosen, they can be austere, classic, pretty or for child's room ... fun.  This example pictured has been given a contemporary twist by using simple fabric combined with a striking yet deceptively simple shape.

The shape can be a straight band, or the lover edge can be gently curved.  Often the shapes in the fabric itself may be followed to create  a stunning effect.  The picture on the right has had added flutes and tails applied to the flat pelmet for added design impact.

The choices are limitless.

Design Benefits

• The lower edge of the pelmet can be cut to any shape.
• The pattern of the fabric is shown to best effect.
• Can utilize the dead wall space above a window.

• Economical on fabric.

Stiff pelmets are made on lightweight plywood.  The fabric is stretched and secured onto the pelmet shape using upholstery techniques that give a taut and padded finish.  The pelmet can then be fixed into position by using either brackets or by the employment of Velcro fixed to the back of the pelmet and to the leading edge of the the facia board.  The curtain track itself may be either fitted to the underside of the pelmet board or face fixed to the wall itself, depending on the situation.

It is important to note that pelmets need to have a depth of at least six inches so that when the curtains are fitted beneath the board, the pelmet does not interfere with the smooth operation of the curtains.

Stiff pelmets are so versatile that they are suitable for virtually every window type, eve the most awkward bay windows.  home zone specializes in stiff upholstered pelmets and for this we provide a full measuring and fitting service.

Below are illustrated various pelmet shapes and designs but remember that any shape can be achieved to suit your own taste and circumstances.

Here are four pelmets with gentle curves along the lower edges.  The lower edges have been trimmed with narrow braid to create classic pelmet shapes.  Fringing or glass beads may also be used depending on your personal preference.  It must be noted that the deeper the pelmet, the more light will be lost coming through the window.

These are four pelmets with repeated scallop shaping along the lower edges.  The lower edges have been trimmed with narrow braid.  These shapes offer a range of design ideas from the simple classic scallops to a more intricate, almost Moroccan feel.  This demonstrates the versatility of this treatment.

Here are four geometric shaped pelmets which can look very dramatic in formal situations but will look equally good in a modern, contemporary setting.  The straight edges of the first pelmet lend itself well to using bands of different fabrics to create a stunning yet simple effect.  Zigzags and castellation are more fun while the classic almost art-deco stepped pelmet looks good in any situation, from classic to modern.

These are four pelmets with gothic shaping along the lower edges.  The tops and lower edges have been trimmed with braid while pelmet C has been trimmed with rope that has been looped at each point.  The points of pelmet D have been finished with tassels.  The use of modern fabrics can also result in a sharp, contemporary design statement.

A pelmet with large scalloped shaping along the lower edge.  The lower edge has been trimmed with  narrow braid and finished with 2 tassels at the high points.. The curtains are held back by tie backs which have been finished with the same tassels to create a coordinated effect.  A simple yet very elegant creation.

A pelmet which is straight in the middle with shaped sides.  The pelmet has been trimmed with braid on all edges.  Knotted rope and tassels have been sewn at the center of the pelmet.  The curtains are held back by tassel tie-backs which match the ones used on the pelmet.

An embroidered pelmet with a curved lower edge.  Inset narrow braid accentuates the top and lower edge.  The tie-backs are also embroidered.  It must be noted that due to the intricate and highly detailed nature of this pelmet it is amongst one of the more expensive items to create.

A pelmet with an arched shaped lower edge and 3 onset trumpets and coronets.  The trumpets have been lined with a contrasting fabric and rope has been knotted at the point where the trumpets and coronets meet.  The tie-backs have also been trimmed with knotted rope.

A pelmet with small scallops along the lower edge and onset swags and short tails.  The lower edge of the pelmet has been trimmed with narrow braid.  The swags and tails have been contrast bound along the edges with a contrasting fabric and are finished with two Maltese crosses.  The swags and tails soften the pelmet and create a more dramatic, formal effect.

A pelmet with 3 scallops along the lower edge and onset swags and decorative mini-tails finished with 2 bows and a choux rosette.  The lower edge of the pelmet has been trimmed with narrow braid.

A straight pelmet with a curve in the center and shaped sides which has been fitted at a wide window.  Flat braid set in from the edge accentuates the shape.  A treatment that is also ideal for bay windows.

A pelmet with a repeated scallop shaped lower edge which has been fitted at a wide window.  Braid and tassels have been used to emphasise the lower edge.  Ideal for bay windows.