Types of curtain lining

The choices don’t end with picking the perfect face fabric for your curtain! There is quite a bit to consider behind the scenes too. Here are the types of lining which can be chosen based on your requirements.

Thermal Curtains

One layer (“one pass”) of a coated acrylic suede compound is known as thermal lining. It offers the advantages of insulation and energy savings, helping to keep rooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It is important to understand that a certain amount of light will pass into the room with this construction. As with all quality linings, thermal lining not only protects soft furnishings from fading, they are also treated to resist mildew and enable good drapability.

The manufacturing process of a thermal lining involves a thermal coating being applied directly to the reverse side of the fabric to reduce the amount of harmful ultraviolet light passing through the fabric, whilst increasing the insulation.

Blackout or Blockout Curtains

Three layers (3 Pass) of a coated acrylic suede compound is known as ‘blackout’ thermal lining. This process offers the same benefits of thermal lining but also totally eliminates light penetration. Blackout lining naturally minimises the risk of natural flaws in the fabric from showing through. It also adds body to the fabric and provides a good stable base for roman blinds. Installing a good quality lining behind your curtains, such as a blackout lining, will not only provide insulation from heat and cold and block out all light for restful sleep, but it will help to protect your curtains from sun damage over time.

Dimout / Triple Weave Curtains

Unlike coated linings, a dimout lining is a woven construction which allows a small amount of light to pass through – hence the name ‘dimout’ as opposed to ‘blackout’. It is a popular lining in both commercial and residential applications due to its affordability, washability and noise reduction properties. It has a soft, thick handle which adds fullness to a lightweight fabric such as silk and taffeta.

Interlining / Bumph Curtains

Interlining adds body and fullness to lightweight fabrics such as silk and taffeta. Its composition is typically either a blend of polyester/viscose/cotton or 100% napped cotton. Interlining also improves insulation and acoustic properties of a room through noise reduction and provides extra protection from harmful UV rays.

Sheer / Net Curtains

These offer privacy and protection from sunlight. They often have a lead weight in the hem to help the fabric hang well and give a finished look. Be aware that the shelf life for sheers is a lot less (about 5 years) than other fabrics because of their composition.

Shower Curtains

If you are finding it hard to find just the right size shower curtains, why not get them custom-made? I have a large range of fabrics suitable for shower curtains in colours and patterns to suit every decor.