I am taking on the project of sewing three sets of inverted pleated drapes that I need to stack back (open) well. I realize the majority of the inverted pleated drapes out there are intended to be stationary panels but as in the attached photograph, I figure there must be a way to keep the pleat out of the way on the back of the header so the drapes can open and close well.

Does anyone have any advice to share?

The return of my rod is 3.75", so I figure the size of my pleats should be smaller than 2 x 3.75" so that the pleats stay off the rods. I plan on using buckram at the header. After sewing my 4" (or 6") pleat, do I just leave the pleat alone in the back or should I tack it to one side? Most instructions online show to fold the back pleat towards the header and stitch in the ditch but is this what impedes the drape from stacking?

ANY advice is most welcome!