Pleating is the art of folding fabric in to different shapes creating differences in volume and texture.

To pleat fabric you first need a pattern or mould. Patterns are made up of two pieces of card that are folded identically so that they can fit together. Most moulds also have a wrapper on the outside to protect the pattern during the heating process.

To pleat fabric you first need to separate the two pieces of card and flatten one on a table. You then lay your fabric on top of the card and cover the fabric with the top part of the pattern.

Once you have the fabric in between the two pieces of card the pattern needs to be folded in to shape and rolled up tight. It is then placed in a steam cabinet to heat set the fabric in to the required shape.

After the pattern has cooled down sufficiently the fabric can be removed and it should now maintain the shape of the pattern used to pleat it.

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

As a family‑run business, we take pride in creating an environment where everyone — colleagues, clients, suppliers, and visitors — is treated with fairness and dignity. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities in how we recruit, train, and develop our team, and we foster a culture where respect and belonging are part of everyday practice.

We recognise that inclusion is an ongoing commitment. We continue to learn, listen, and evolve so that our studio remains a place where people feel valued and able to contribute their best work.

Ciment Pleating has always been shaped by people: their ideas, their skills, and their stories. Our dedication to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion reflects not only our values but the kind of company we want to be for the next century of our craft.