Direct Fabrics Blog

Lab-Tested Acoustic Curtains: Your Sound Solution

Lab-Tested Acoustic Curtains: Your Sound Solution

Are you tired of the constant noise infiltrating your space, disrupting your peace? Direct Fabrics introduces a revolutionary solution – lab-tested acoustic curtains. In this article, we delve into the world of acoustic curtains, crafted from grade-A-rated sound absorption fabric, designed to bring tranquillity back into your life.

Lab-Tested Acoustic Curtains

Our acoustic curtains are engineered to combat sound on multiple fronts. We use our Expression fabric, known for its remarkable sound absorption capabilities. With a grade A rating for sound absorption, these curtains are designed to reduce noise levels significantly.

Soundproofing Benefits

Beyond sound absorption, our acoustic curtains offer an additional perk – soundproofing. They create a barrier that helps block external noise from entering your space. This means a quieter, more peaceful environment where you can focus, relax, or simply enjoy the serenity.

Double Fullness Design

To maximize sound absorption and soundproofing, we recommend using double-fullness curtains. This means the amount of fabric is twice the width of your curtain track. This design not only enhances the sound-absorbing qualities but also adds an elegant pleated finish to your curtains.

Duo Lining for Added Comfort

For the ultimate sound and light control, we offer curtains with a duo lining. This integrated lining combines blackout and fleece, ensuring that your space remains quiet and dark whenever you desire.

Experience the Difference

In our video demonstration, we show you the remarkable impact of these lab-tested acoustic curtains. We've used a 2-meter curtain track with three widths of curtain material for a luxurious pleated finish. The curtains hang beautifully, adding both style and functionality to your space.

Lab-Tested Sound Reduction

In our video, we put these curtains to the test. We measure the ambient noise level in an office environment. With no one talking, the sound level hovers around 31 to 32 decibels. But when we turn on a vacuum cleaner in the next room, the noise level rises to approximately 45 decibels with the curtains open.

Transformative Sound Reduction

Now, watch how the sound level drops to 38 decibels when we close the curtains. This significant reduction is proof of the curtains' ability to create a quieter environment.

Real-Life Application

To demonstrate the real-life impact, we performed a second test with a vacuum cleaner in the same room. With the curtains open, the sound level reaches 43 to 44 decibels. However, as soon as we close the curtains, the noise level drops significantly to around 37 decibels, creating a noticeably quieter space.

Conclusion

Lab-tested acoustic curtains are the ultimate solution for a peaceful and quiet environment. Whether you want to reduce external noise or maintain silence within your space, these curtains provide the perfect acoustic barrier. Discover tranquillity and experience a new level of sound reduction. Say goodbye to unwanted noise and hello to peace with Direct Fabrics' lab-tested acoustic curtains.

How to Dress and Set Pleats in Your Curtains for a Perfect Finish

How to Dress and Set Pleats in Your Curtains for a Perfect Finish

Curtains can add a touch of elegance to your space, but achieving that perfect, polished look can be a bit tricky. In this guide, we'll show you how to dress and set pleats in your curtains for a flawless interior design. Whether you have pencil pleat curtains or heavy acoustic fabric, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

Tools and Materials You'll Need To Dress and Set Pleats:

• Your curtains
• A step ladder
• Plastic straps (or curtain ties)
• A bit of patience and precision

Step 1: Preparing Your Curtains

To start, ensure you have the right curtains that match your design. In this example, we're using three-inch pencil pleat curtains with blackout lining from directfabrics.co.uk. They're versatile and ready to hang, ensuring a total blackout effect for your space.

Step 2: Hanging the Curtains

Begin by clipping the curtains onto your curtain track. In this demonstration, we're using a multi-channel track, the 2 900 curtain track, which sits flush to the ceiling. Make sure the hooks are evenly distributed across the curtain.

Step 3: Dressing Your Curtains

Now comes the exciting part – dressing your curtains for a beautiful finish. Pull the curtain to one side, either left or right, depending on which way you'd like it to stack.

Step 4: Working on the Pleats

Take an oddment of the plastic strap (curtain tie) and start working on the pleats. Ensure the leading edge of the curtain is tucked around, and then start shaping the pleats.

Step 5: Set Pleats

Work your way across the curtain, shaping the pleats as you go. If there are any creases from transportation, gently brush them out. For lined curtains, tuck the lining to ensure it's hidden within the pleats.

Step 6: Adding Plastic Straps

Around halfway through, use plastic straps to hold the pleats in place. This will help maintain the pleated shape and keep your curtains looking tidy.

Step 7: Final Adjustments

Continue to work on your pleats, pulling them tightly and making sure they are neat and uniform. If you feel the lining has come out, tuck it back into place. Remember, curtains are textiles, so you can adjust them to your liking.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Beautifully Pleated Curtains

Step back and admire your perfectly dressed curtains. While they may have a few creases initially, they will naturally drop out over time. If you're in a hurry, you can use a steamer to help smooth out any remaining wrinkles.

Bonus Tips:

• If your curtains are a width and a half, hang the narrower side to the edge of your curtain to hide seams effectively.
• Setting pleats will create a desirable stack-back, giving your windows a fabulous finish.

Set Pleats: Conclusion

Dressing and setting pleats in your curtains is an art that can enhance the interior design of any space. Whether you have pencil pleat curtains or heavy acoustic fabric, following these steps will help you achieve that perfect, polished look. Remember, take your time, and don't rush. With a little patience and precision, your curtains will look stunning, transforming your space into a cozy and stylish haven. Enjoy your beautifully pleated curtains!

How To Bend A Curtain Track

How To Bend A Curtain Track

Bay windows add charm and elegance to any room, bend a curtain track to make sure you have the right window solution. In this guide, we'll show you how to achieve a 90-degree internal bend and create an S-shaped curve for your curtain track. Let's get started!

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

• Curtain track with bendable rods and hoops
• A little patience and precision

Video: Bend A Curtain Track

Step 1: Understanding the Track

Before we dive into bending, let's get familiar with the curtain track. It consists of two rods with hoops that can move up and down the track, making it versatile for bay windows.

Step 2: Preparing for the Bend

First, let's create a 90-degree internal bend. Imagine the top of the track with brackets attached, which is the face, and the back of the track. You'll be bending the track inward.

Step 3: Gradually Bend A Curtain Track

Locate the middle point of the rods and bend them around your knee. The goal here is to achieve a gradual bend, so take it slow. Do not over-compress the track.

Step 4: S Bend A Curtain Track

Once you've created the initial bend, slide the rods along the track to make space for the next bend. Now, bend the track in the opposite direction, creating an S shape. This gives you the flexibility to make the track go around corners and achieve a bay window-friendly design.

Step 5: Fine-Tuning

Inspect your work and ensure a smooth finish. If there are any slight twists, they can be adjusted later with brackets.

Step 6: Securing Brackets and Gliders

Now that you have your custom-bent track, it's time to secure it in place. Attach the brackets and insert gliders into the track. Even on the corners, your curtain track will remain secure, providing a smooth glide for your curtains.

Step 7: Practice and Patience

Like any DIY project, practice makes perfect. If you're cutting the track down, use the leftover piece to practice bending. Take your time, measure carefully, and apply pressure steadily. There's no rush when it comes to creating custom bay window curtains.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Perfect Bay Window Curtains

With your custom-bent curtain track, you can now hang curtains that fit your bay windows flawlessly. These tracks are decorative and designed to support curtains up to 20 kilograms, making them ideal for bay windows.

Conclusion

Bending a curtain track for bay windows may seem challenging, but with the right techniques and a little patience, it becomes a straightforward DIY project. Your custom-made curtains will beautifully complement your bay window, adding a touch of elegance to your living space.

Remember, measure three times and apply your measurements with confidence. Take your time, and soon you'll have stunning bay window curtains that enhance the beauty of your home. Enjoy your new and improved window decor!