Selecting Fabrics and Linings for Curtains

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Most of the fabrics used for window treatments are 54 inches wide. Sheers and laces however come in 180 inches, making full and seamless curtains possible. The selection of fabrics is enormous, from humble muslins to opulent lames. Light to medium weight fabrics are generally used for unlined curtains and soft valances. They hang gracefully and will fold well for valance treatments. Although you can use any weight for draperies, lighter-weight fabrics may need an inner lining for body or insulation. But never select heavy upholstery-weight fabric or one with a laminated back for window treatment unless it is for a cornice. It will be too stiff to fall nicely. Make sure that any velvets, cut velvets or velveteens you use are soft enough to drape that way you want.

Curtains or draperies look best when they are full and generous. When you are buying panels that you want to close be sure that they are wide enough to overlap each other in the middle of the window. If there is a question, always go for the wider cut. If you are making your own pleated curtains or draperies then buy enough material to cover the window width one and a half times. Buy enough sheer fabric to cover the window width three times.

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