Best String Curtain Heading Options: Rod Pocket, Velcro, Hooks & Grommets
Kassie Espinoza on Aug 1st 2019
Choosing the right heading style for your string curtains can make all the difference in creating a beautiful, professional installation.
Whether you're planning a wedding backdrop, trade show booth, corporate event, theatrical production, retail display, or commercial interior, the curtain heading determines how your string curtains are attached, supported, and displayed.
At GenerationStore.com, we specialize in custom-made string fringe curtains for event planners, exhibit designers, decorators, architects, and creative professionals.
Our four primary string curtain heading options are:
- Rod Pocket Heading
- Velcro Strip Heading
- Hook Heading
- Grommet (Eyelet) Heading
This guide explains their features, applications, and customization options to help you choose the best solution for your project.
Quick Comparison: Which String Curtain Heading Is Right for You?
| Heading Style | Best Applications | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Rod Pocket | Pipe-and-drape systems, weddings, event backdrops | Simple installation, flexible positioning |
| Velcro Strip | Trade shows, exhibit frames, retail displays | Convenient attachment and removal |
| Hooks | Curtain tracks, traverse rods, theatrical installations | Structured, professional hanging |
| Grommets | Commercial interiors, decorative rods, hospitality spaces | Modern appearance with decorative folds |
The most suitable heading depends on your installation structure, curtain dimensions, desired appearance, and mounting requirements.
1. Rod Pocket Heading — Versatile and Popular for Events
The Rod Pocket Heading is our standard option and one of the most popular choices for hanging string curtains in event environments.
It features a sewn fabric pocket approximately 2½ inches in size, designed to accommodate a compatible curtain rod or pipe.
The rod slides through the pocket, allowing the curtain to hang naturally and create a flowing decorative effect.
Benefits of Rod Pocket Headings
- Simple installation using compatible rods or pipes.
- Ideal for conventional pipe-and-drape systems.
- Curtains can be spread across the rod for a flatter appearance.
- Panels can be gathered for fuller visual coverage.
- Suitable for weddings, event backdrops, and room dividers.
Custom Rod Pocket Sizes Available
Need a different pocket size? We can explore customizing the rod pocket to your specifications.
Not every installation uses the same pipe or hanging system. Custom pocket dimensions may be available to accommodate your project's specific mounting requirements.
Important: Custom Rod Pocket sizes may require a minimum order quantity or minimum purchase value. Contact GenerationStore.com to confirm feasibility, specifications, pricing, and production lead times.
Installation Tip: Always verify your rod's outside diameter and the usable pocket opening before ordering.
2. Velcro Strip Heading — Ideal for Trade Shows and Creative Installations
Our Velcro Strip Heading offers a convenient alternative when traditional curtain rods are impractical.
The heading features a 2-inch-wide hook-and-loop attachment strip sewn into the top of the string curtain.
This attachment method allows curtains to be installed on compatible exhibit structures, frames, and other properly prepared mounting surfaces.
Benefits of Velcro Strip Headings
- Convenient installation and removal.
- Well suited for trade show booths and temporary exhibits.
- Useful for retail merchandising displays.
- Works with compatible custom frames and mounting surfaces.
- Allows creative installation solutions without a traditional curtain rod.
Ideal Applications
- Exhibition booths and trade show displays.
- Corporate event installations.
- Retail window decorations.
- Temporary decorative partitions.
- Custom-built display structures.
Installation Tip: Make sure the mating hook-and-loop strip is securely attached and that the complete mounting system can support the curtain's weight.
For special configurations, contact GenerationStore.com to discuss customization options. Minimum purchase requirements may apply.
3. Hook Heading — Professional Appearance for Tracks and Traverse Rods
The Hook Heading is an excellent solution for projects requiring a structured and professional curtain installation.
This heading uses a reinforced fabric header with a buckram liner, helping support the curtain and providing a stable foundation for compatible drapery hooks.
The hooks can be used with suitable traverse rods, rings, or curtain-track hardware.
Benefits of Hook Headings
- Suitable for compatible curtain-track systems.
- Provides a structured, professional appearance.
- Works well for selected commercial and theatrical installations.
- Supports consistent curtain positioning.
- Offers flexibility for projects using drapery hardware.
Ideal Applications
- Stage productions and theatrical environments.
- Commercial interior installations.
- Hospitality and restaurant design.
- Conference centers and event venues.
- Decorative partitions using compatible tracks.
Installation Tip: Confirm hook type, spacing, hardware compatibility, and installation load before ordering.
4. Grommet Heading — Modern Decorative Appearance
The Grommet Heading, also known as an Eyelet Heading, provides an attractive alternative when the curtain's top finish is part of the overall design.
This heading incorporates metal eyelets along the top of the curtain, allowing a compatible rod to pass through the openings.
Our standard grommet option features approximately 2-inch eyelet rings, suitable for compatible rods up to approximately 1¼ inches in diameter.
When installed appropriately, the grommets help create decorative folds and an elegant hanging appearance.
Benefits of Grommet Headings
- Modern, sophisticated appearance.
- Decorative folds and attractive fabric header.
- Suitable for compatible curtain rods.
- Ideal for upscale commercial and event environments.
- Attractive for window treatments and room dividers.
Ideal Applications
- Hotels, restaurants, and hospitality interiors.
- Retail stores and visual merchandising.
- Corporate event installations.
- Interior design projects.
- Decorative partitions and window displays.
Installation Tip: Verify the actual grommet opening, rod diameter, mounting clearances, and required curtain fullness before purchasing.
5. Standard Density vs. High Density — Why It Matters
In addition to choosing the correct heading style, selecting the appropriate string curtain density is important for achieving your desired appearance.
GenerationStore.com offers Standard Density and Premium High Density string curtain options.
Standard Density String Curtains
Standard Density typically features approximately 13–15 strings per inch, creating a lighter, more open appearance.
These curtains are especially suitable for:
- Light, airy decorative backdrops.
- Wedding and special event decorations.
- Displays requiring greater visibility through the curtain.
- Decorative installations with subtle movement.
Premium High Density String Curtains
Premium High Density typically features approximately 26–30 strings per inch, providing fuller visual coverage and a more dramatic effect.
These curtains are ideal for:
- Stage and theatrical backdrops.
- High-impact event installations.
- Premium exhibit designs.
- Decorative partitions requiring fuller coverage.
- Selected projection and lighting applications.
Important: High-Density curtains generally weigh more than Standard-Density curtains of comparable dimensions.
For more information, read our Standard Density vs. High Density String Curtain Guide.
6. Curtain Weight and Installation Planning
Before ordering string curtains for your project, consider the following factors:
- Curtain width and finished length.
- Total number of curtain panels required.
- Standard Density or Premium High Density.
- Heading style and mounting hardware.
- Total weight of the installation.
- Load capacity of the supporting structure.
- Temporary versus permanent installation requirements.
String curtain weight varies by panel size and density.
For additional information, visit our String Curtain Weight Guide: Standard Density vs. High Density.
For ceiling-mounted or suspended installations, consult a qualified professional to confirm that the mounting system and supporting structure can safely accommodate the total load.
7. Custom String Curtains for Events and Commercial Projects
At GenerationStore.com, we understand that every project is different.
Our string fringe curtains are available in a variety of colors, lengths, densities, and heading configurations to accommodate different creative applications.
Depending on the product and manufacturing feasibility, customization options may include:
- Custom curtain widths and lengths.
- Special heading configurations.
- Custom Rod Pocket sizes.
- Alternative colors and color combinations.
- Standard or Premium High Density.
- Installation-specific configurations.
- Special commercial and event applications.
Our team works with event planners, wedding decorators, exhibit designers, production companies, and other professionals to help identify practical solutions for their projects.
Custom orders may require minimum quantities or minimum purchase values. Availability, pricing, and lead times depend on individual project requirements.
Explore our Custom String Fringe Curtains.
8. Have a Unique Idea? Let's Explore Your Creative Vision!
At GenerationStore.com, we believe great event designs often begin with unique ideas.
We're always open to exploring new concepts, creative applications, and special requirements that go beyond our standard product offerings.
Whether you're an event planner, exhibit designer, architect, visual merchandiser, or creative professional, we welcome the opportunity to learn about your vision and explore potential custom string curtain solutions.
We Welcome Creative Ideas Such As:
- Unique curtain dimensions and configurations.
- Unconventional heading styles and installation methods.
- Special colors, patterns, or density combinations.
- Creative decorative structures and architectural installations.
- Large-scale event and trade show designs.
- Custom solutions for retail environments and commercial spaces.
- Innovative ideas not currently featured in our product catalog.
Important Information About Custom Projects
While we're enthusiastic about exploring creative ideas, certain custom designs may require a minimum order quantity or minimum purchase value.
These requirements depend on factors such as:
- Materials and manufacturing processes.
- Design complexity.
- Production setup requirements.
- Order volume.
- Manufacturing feasibility.
All custom requests are subject to review, feasibility confirmation, and approval before production.
Have Something Creative in Mind?
We'd love to hear about it!
Share your sketches, reference images, drawings, dimensions, or project specifications with our team.
We'll be happy to review your ideas, explore available options, and discuss potential solutions.
Contact GenerationStore.com to discuss your custom project.
Frequently Asked Questions About String Curtain Heading Options
What is the easiest heading style for pipe-and-drape systems?
Rod Pocket is generally the most convenient choice for standard pipe-and-drape installations. The pipe passes through the sewn pocket at the top of the curtain.
Can I order a custom Rod Pocket size?
Yes. Custom pocket sizes may be available depending on your project requirements and manufacturing feasibility. Minimum order quantities or purchase values may apply.
How wide is the Velcro heading strip?
Our standard Velcro heading features a 2-inch-wide hook-and-loop attachment strip sewn into the curtain's top header.
Which heading is best for trade show booths?
Velcro headings are often practical for custom exhibition frames, while Rod Pocket headings work well with conventional pipe-and-drape systems. The appropriate option depends on the booth structure and mounting requirements.
Can string curtains be installed using curtain tracks?
Yes. Hook headings can be used with compatible traverse rods and curtain-track hardware. Always verify the hardware configuration before ordering.
What is the difference between Standard Density and High Density?
Standard Density creates a lighter and more translucent appearance. High Density offers fuller visual coverage and a more dramatic effect.
High-Density curtains generally weigh more than Standard-Density curtains of equivalent dimensions.
Are custom curtain headings available?
GenerationStore.com welcomes inquiries about customized heading configurations, dimensions, and other installation requirements. Special requests are subject to feasibility review and may require minimum purchasing commitments.
Can you help us explore a completely new installation idea?
Absolutely! We welcome creative concepts and special project requirements. Please send us your sketches, reference images, dimensions, and project details so we can evaluate potential customization options.
Ready to Create Your Custom String Curtain Installation?
Whether you're designing an exhibition booth, wedding backdrop, theatrical production, retail display, or corporate event, GenerationStore.com is here to help you explore the right string curtain solutions.
From standard heading options to specialized custom projects, our goal is to help bring your creative vision to life.
Contact GenerationStore.com today to discuss your project or request a custom quotation.
GenerationStore.com — Custom-Made Products for Events.
Originally Published: August 1, 2019
Last Updated: October 14, 2026
Editor's Note: This article has been updated with additional information about string curtain heading options, customization possibilities, installation recommendations, and helpful resources for event planners, designers, and commercial buyers.
