From sheers to blackout curtains, choosing the right fabric will have a huge impact on the overall appeal and style of your home. Everyone would agree that curtains, when chosen correctly, can really make a room. Even if you can pick any type of curtain, the type of material you choose will influence the way you hang the curtains, how much light they can block, or how durable they are.
There are certain factors you need to consider when choosing the right curtain fabrics. Heavier fabrics are great for their light-blocking properties and are practical for homes located in the urban areas, while lighter ones can add a dreamy and soft touch to a room.
Guidelines When Choosing Curtain Fabrics
- Velvet, faux-silk, and linen are all great to ensure that curtains hang properly.
- If the purpose of the curtain is to catch the afternoon sunlight, polyester, Dynel fabrics, cotton, or acrylic are ideal since they usually don’t fade easily compared to other fabrics. Avoid silk curtains in sunny rooms as they are more susceptible to sun damage. Use polyester fabric instead if you want to achieve the same look of silk.
- If you want curtains to keep the heat in and the light out perfectly, go for triple weave fabric, such as velvet, suede, tweed, or tapestry.
- Decorator fabrics tend to be more durable because they have a higher thread count than clothing fabric.
Choosing the Right Curtain Fabric
Curtains are more than just window dressing—they help you harmonise the decoration of your home and complement the overall appeal of the room. Colour, price, and texture are major considerations, as well as the purpose of the curtains. Here are some factors to consider:
Pattern and Colour
When you choose curtain fabrics, it is always important to base it on the colour of the room. They should easily blend with the overall style and decoration of your home. The wrong choice of fabric can have a negative impact on the look of the space. Consider the wall paintings, cushion, and sofa when choosing the fabric—choose colours and patterns that blend in with those furnishings.
Privacy Protection
There are three options if you want curtains to protect your indoor privacy:
- Synthetic lining material or tightly-woven light-blocking cotton to boost the abilities of decorative fabrics
- Layered window treatment with semi-sheer panels to provide a sense of partial-to-complete privacy
- Tightly-woven opaque fabrics and sheer curtains to protect your privacy without compromising your view
Maintenance and Durability
Quality is another major consideration when choosing curtain fabrics. If you intend to have the same curtain for many years, choose a material that can perfectly do its job. The right kind of material should be able to withstand direct sunlight and will not fade nor tear apart after a few years. Maintainance is also important.
A lot of fabrics may look elegant but need a lot of care. Silk and velvet need to be dry-cleaned, while light cotton and linen fabrics can be washed at home. Choose fabrics that you know will not require a lot of maintenance or replacement for many years to come. Fabrics that are easy to maintain is also ideal if you have pets or kids at home.
With so many options of curtain fabrics, from sheer to blackout, to a myriad of patterns and every colour spectrum, the possibilities are endless. Consider how you will use the curtains and how often. Be bold and be as creative as you can. It will be ideal to consult with a professional before making any decisions.
Contact Direct Fabrics today for expert advice on the requirements and style of the room, as well as the limitations. We offer a wide selection of contract curtain fabrics in the UK.