Curtain lining is often forgotten about but is so important as curtain lining can give your made to measure curtains fullness, an extra layer of protection or warmth and add a luxury finish to your window dressing. So, what is a curtain lining? Curtain lining is a fabric attached to the back of a curtain that can help retain heat or reduce light. We know it can be confusing trying to decide which lining is right for your home, so we have put together a curtain lining guide to help you choose.
Choosing the right lining type for your made to measure curtains may be confusing, so we’ve outlined the benefits of all of our lining options. Choose from five different lining types when designing your curtains; standard lining, blackout lining, interlined, interlined blackout lining and thermal lining. If you’re designing lined roman blinds, you can choose from bonded and bonded blackout lining.
An unlined curtain does just what it says on the tin. It is a simple and affordable option as your curtain is made using your selected fabric only. This option lets the fabric sing on its own but is less effective at retaining heat or blocking light. Unlined curtains work well with a fabric like wool, as it is a thicker, heavier fabric that hangs beautifully on its own. If you decide to have unlined curtains in your bedroom, our design team would recommend also having some blackout blinds, as although the curtains will look pretty, they won’t be as effective at keeping the light out.
A simple ivory cotton lining is stitched to the back of your selected fabric. The lined finish gives a tailored look making sure that your curtain stays looking smart. A simple, yet stylish option, it is also the most affordable lining type. Our standard lining can go a long way in protecting your fabric from sunlight damage and adding some heat retention qualities to your made to measure curtains.
An ivory coloured blackout lining is stitched to the back of your selected fabric before your curtain is made. The blackout lining is perfect for bedroom curtains as it prevents any light coming through and disturbing your sleep. It’s important to measure your curtain carefully before ordering, as although the blackout lining will ensure no light will come through the fabric, light will still be able to make it through any little gaps. Take a look at our tips and tricks for better blackout in your bedroom.
The most luxurious lining - - - a padded woven fabric and a cotton lining are stitched to the back of your chosen fabric, creating a fuller, more extravagant and traditional looking pair of curtains. It also provides great insulation against cold and draughty windows. We recommend using an interlining with thinner fabrics like silk as it will give more volume, but it’s worth bearing in mind that interlined curtains can be quite heavy so you’ll need to make sure that you have a pole or track that will take the weight. Interlining can also make the stackback of your curtains weightier, so make sure you are taking that into account when you are measuring and ensure you have enough wall space on either side of your window.
Interlined blackout lining is exactly the same as standard interlining, but with the added benefit of blackout. This lining is ideal for bedrooms in older houses that need some help retaining heat and stopping draughts around the windows.
Similar to interlining, our thermal lining is perfect for older homes which may feel draughty. Thermal lining is great for heat retention and will help keep the heat in and the cold out. This lining has a thermal-backed coating which is stitched to the back of your chosen fabric. This is another lining option which can create a heavy pair of curtains, so when paired with wool or a flax fabric, ensure your track or pole is suitable for the weight. Our custom tracks and poles are designed for this purpose so could be a good addition to help insulate your home.
Our made to measure roman blinds are offered with either a bonded or bonded blackout lining. Both of these lining options create a beautifully full blind with some thermal properties and blackout where required. Take a look at our guide to roman blind lining to help you decide on the best option for you. Similar to curtains, you can always leave them unlined if it’s just some privacy or sun-blocking that’s required!