Best Fabric Guide
Apr 02, 2024
Best fabrics for sheer curtains
Sheer is a lightweight fabric that is often layered underneath heavier curtains. Although they are often added for aesthetic purposes, they also serve a functional purpose.
Voile. Voile is a soft, light, transparent woven fabric. Typically, it is 100% cotton, but it can also be polyester. Higher quality options have very fine surfaces that allow a certain amount of light in while still providing privacy.
Muslim. Mid-weight fabric made from woven cotton. It's breathable, allowing airflow into the space while still providing privacy.
Lace. Fabric, often made from natural fibers, that allows light, provides privacy and exudes a classic and elegant look.
The best fabrics for regular curtains
cotton. Among curtain weight materials, cotton is very popular for its appearance and functionality. You probably don't need a lining on your curtain-weight cotton fabric, although a lining can add strength, durability, and appearance.
canvas. Canvas is a strong, durable, tightly woven cotton fabric that is a staple for home decoration and utility. Not only does it look good, but it also blocks out light very well.
Poplin. Poplin, also known as tabinet, is a medium-weight fabric made of cotton, wool, linen, silk, or man-made fibers, either alone or together. Its horizontal warp and vertical weft lines not only give it strength but also its unique appearance.
Velvet. Velvet can be made from a variety of fibers, such as cotton, linen, mohair, wool, and silk. Although each fiber produces a different effect, velvet is still a lovely choice for home decor. Velvet is ideal if you want to block out light and cold in a luxurious way. Learn more about why velvet is such a beloved fabric.
satin. This mid-weight fabric is smooth and lustrous, and its name actually refers to the weave rather than the material. Satin fabric is a great way to add class to your home's windows.
brocade. A heavy, rich-looking fabric, usually made of colorful silks with or without gold and silver threads. Damask is incredibly beautiful and practical because of the decorative way it is woven.
Linen. Linen (not dressmaking linen) is generally medium to heavyweight and is ideal for use as curtain fabric. Not only is it thick and durable, it provides light while still providing privacy. Although linen wrinkles easily, this does not take away from its elegance. In fact, that's part of its charm. Learn more about why linen is a must-have fabric for your home.
Rayon. Although rayon is derived from a natural material (cellulose), it does require certain chemicals and is therefore semi-synthetic. Its refreshing texture, shiny appearance, durability and good drape make it a very popular choice.
Extra tips
Some other tips that may come in handy when you're searching for fabric options:
To see if the fabric drapes well, take some test fabric, pleat it at the top like an accordion, and let it drape. If it's in a flared shape instead of falling straight down, it won't hang well on the window.
Keep in mind that sunlight can fade fabrics over time, so avoid using bright, bold colors in well-lit rooms as they tend to fade faster.
Linen, silk (or rayon) and velvet hang best.
Suede, velvet, tapestry or tweed will keep the cold out, but you can always line other fabrics with insulation.
Small windows or windows are the only source of light and require only simple valances, roman shades or cafe curtains.
Determine how high your curtains will be above the window and take your measurements. Hanging them higher than the window will give the room a sense of height.
Custom curtains will give you exactly what you want, but if they're not within your budget, try spending a little more for higher quality retail fabrics.
