How to Select the Best Fabric for Your Curtains Based on Style, Location, and More

Choosing a fabric suitable for your window coverings, it’s essential to ensure your curtains meet your needs. Certain fabrics are better than others, depending on your aesthetic style and purpose. Some curtains can better withstand damage from the sun, water, and other ailments. Color and texture are important, and so is the fabric weight.

What are you looking to accomplish? Here are my 3 top tips for helping you decide the best option for you…

1. Look Closely at Your Lighting

Think about the purpose of your curtains. Do you want to block out light entirely or prefer filtered natural light? Or both? You can use different types of linings to achieve different effects. For example, black-out linings can be sewn to the back of drapery panels or Roman shades to create a dark and cozy environment. However, make sure you choose a neutral color for the lining, as a black fabric may look unappealing from the outside.

If you want a light and airy feeling and a black-out option, you can install a black-out roller shade behind a simple valance box inset into your window frame and then hang light and breezy panels on a long rod to add movement and texture.

2. Inspect Your Home's Insulation

If your home is an older construction or you live in a cold climate, choose fabrics that can keep you warm and cozy. Velvet and wool are good options for insulating windows and blocking the frigid air.

However, if your room also gets a lot of sunlight, you should look for fabrics with UVA & UVB protection to prevent fading and damage. Wool and cotton are more resistant to fading than silk and linen. Lining the material will also work as a protector.

3. Select Your Curtain's Hanging Style

There are different styles of drapery that you can choose from. The most common curtain lengths are 63 inches, 84 inches, 96 inches, 108 inches, and 120 inches. The length you choose depends on the style of drapery you want. For example, apron-length curtains measure 84 inches and fall a few inches below the window sill. Café-length curtains are designed to stop at your window sill and provide a less formal look.

Floor-length curtains go from above your window frame all the way to the floor to create a traditional, formal look. When falling to the floor, there are three different styles: "just touching," a more modern approach for simple straight panels. A "slight break" gives that shabby chic look or a "puddle" where the fabric balloons on the floor. Test your fabric, and make sure that it drapes well when you are considering these bespoke options.

Window treatments can transform a room in subtle and dramatic ways, giving a space the finishing touch. Yes, they also serve a practical purpose, but that doesn't mean they can't look good too!

If you're ready for a professional to help you pick the perfect curtains for your windows, let's talk! We'd be delighted to help.

Cheers,

Lori