Pleating is the process of putting a design of creases into fabric. Pleating is accomplished by machine or by the use of interlocking paper pleat patterns.

Pleating is a steam heat process and we use no chemicals during processing. Permanency depends entirely on the fabric. 100% polyester fabrics are best for pleating and can normally be washed at a low temperature and still hold a pleat.

Most natural fabrics such as wool or silk will pleat perfectly well, but care has to be taken in cleaning and wearing. Specialist dry cleaning is recommended. Cotton and Linen will pleat but tends to crease easily. All care is taken during processing but no responsibility can be taken for colour change, bubbling or shrinkage.

Pleating is the gathering of the fabric into rows in preparation for smocking. Years ago, the gathering was done by hand -- first by ironing dot transfers onto the fabric, and then by “picking up” the dots with a needle and thread. After all the dots were picked up, the threads were pulled to form the pleats. Today, pleating can be done quickly and easily using a pleater.