Selecting the perfect fabric for curtains is not a rocket science, but obviously it is much more than that.
Fabrics defines the whole ambience of your interior décor. May it be curtains, upholstery or your bed linen, in the long run it always pay off to give prior consideration to selecting the best fabric.
And this choice becomes more important for curtains because they cover up a significant area of your space and you will not change them often like your bed linen.
Criteria to consider
The following are important criteria to consider when choosing the curtain fabric, color, and style for any room of your house.
- Density
Determine the privacy and natural light you want inside your room- this will help when choosing the curtain fabric of the right density. The thicker the curtain textile, the opaquer it will be blocking more light and increasing your privacy.
If you want to keep a bedroom dark for sleeping, you will want a thicker fabric and a style that covers the whole window. If you enjoy waking up to light leaking through your space, you’ll want a fabric that is lighter to allow more light through
- Weight
A heavy fabric like velvet or canvas provides more privacy as well as insulation. Moreover, it will not be blown away by strong winds. Though, the curtain rods and accessories should be chosen, keeping in mind the weight so that it does not break down.
- Opacity
The opacity is another essential criterion that is directly related to the privacy you enjoy. It is also related to the weight of the curtain as the opaque materials are usually on the heavier side. They are good for rooms that receive abundant sunlight as it can tone down the harshness or block it completely depending on the degree of opacity.
- Color
The color of the curtain complements the overall décor of your home and should be chosen with care. Depending on the material, the same color can have a different effect and look within the same décor layout. Also, consider the functionality of the color you choose. For example, dark colors block the sunlight more effectively, while light colors are more useful if that is not your concern.
So to make it simple for you, we have listed below the most popular, aesthetically pleasing and durable fabrics for curtains. Read it thoroughly to know something new about each fabric and later decide which fabric will suit your needs in the best manner.
Most Popular Curtain Fabrics
- Polyester
Polyester is a common fabric for curtains, as it is durable, sturdy, and affordable. Polyester curtains are easy to care for and resist wrinkling, shrinking, and stretching. Because polyester curtains are so low maintenance, they’re perfect for curtain first-timers. If you’re moving into your first home, polyester is a great option.
Moreover, polyester offers the widest variety of curtains like jacquards, blackouts, sheers, textures etc.
This fabric is perfect for bedroom or living room curtains. However, you should avoid outfitting your kitchen with polyester curtains as the material is flammable, can absorb odors, and limits air circulation. Most of the curtains you see in modern settings are made of polyester fabric.
- Cotton
Cotton curtains are perfect choice for a space where you want your casual vibes to flow. Cotton offers a ton of earthy shades and an eye pleasing look to everyone. Also, what makes cotton so perfect is the fact that it is environment friendly fabric unlike polyester. So the go to fabric for someone who wants their purchase to have minimal impact on environment.
Curtains made of cotton or a cotton blend are a versatile style option. They offer a crisp, clean feel that suits most of the settings.
If you’re looking to block sunlight in a bright bedroom or provide privacy in your living room, choose cotton curtains with a tight weave, or opt for a lined cotton panel. If you prefer your room to have a light, airy feel, go for sheer cotton curtains. Cotton curtains cast gently filtered light in any space and are easy to care for, making them a great choice for your little ones’ rooms.
- Blackout
As implied in their name, blackout curtains are ideal for blocking out sunlight. They’re perfect for bedrooms of kids who take naps or for your own bedroom if you need to sleep during the day.
It is always wise to use blackout curtains in rooms where you get direct sunlight. Blocking out sunlight directly decreases the temperature of that room.
Blackout curtains are made of an opaque fabric that’s backed by foam, which is what stops light from entering your room. Much like thermal curtains, the thick fabric of blackout curtains will also increase your home’s privacy.
- Velvet
Velvet is a heavy fabric that offers many other benefits along with making your space aesthetically pleasing. Due to their thickness, velvet curtains provide extra privacy and help to block sounds and light. They also work as insulator and keeps the temperature down in winters.
Velvet curtains tend to be high maintenance but they drape very well, so this style offers a polished look that dresses up formal dining rooms, traditionally styled living rooms, or regal master bedrooms.
Home Crayons has a dedicated section for velvet curtains which you can check here.
- Linen
Linen tends to be a more billowy fabric that still provides a tailored look, making curtains constructed of this material perfect for a casual dining area, airy bedroom, or contemporary living room. Linen drapes nicely, and the sheer fabric doesn’t block the sun, which allows for natural light to fill your living space.
To keep the grace of linen curtains intact they should be hung immediately. Although the linen fabric is durable but to make it more durable it should be dry cleaned. Linen fabric will add a breath of fresh air in your home, also linen curtains will be picture-perfect additions to any room where your family gathers.
- Silk
Silk curtains are heavier than curtains made from other materials and drape well, offering a romantic look that’s ideal for bedrooms or formal dining rooms. Keep in mind that silk is dry clean only, which makes washing this types of curtains more time consuming.
If you’re hanging silk curtains in rooms that receive a lot of natural light, protect your investment by using window shades or lighter-colored panels for lining, as silk is very susceptible to sun damage.
Faux silk curtains offer easier laundering and more durability. Whether they’re imitation or the real deal, silk curtains are ideal for creating a luxurious feel in any room.
- Lace
Lace is a very sheer fabric, so curtains made from this material tend to diffuse natural light and offer an open, airy feel. Use lace curtains to add a romantic touch to your traditionally styled dining room, or hang them over French doors to provide some privacy without totally blocking your source of outdoor sunlight.
Lace curtains are typically available in neutral shades, such as white, ivory, and ecru, so they’re easy to coordinate with any color scheme in your room. Depending on the construction of lace curtains, they may be dry-clean or machine washable. Always check care labels for specific laundering instructions.
So listed above are the best and most popular fabrics for curtains. Choose the fabric which best suits your criteria. Home Crayons provides curtains in most of the fabrics listed above. See our vast collection of curtains here and customize them according to your need.