Everything You Need To Know About Curtain Lining

There are many different ways of lining curtains, and the range of options brings different benefits. So in this article, we look at the types of curtain lining fabric and discuss what each offers.

What is curtain lining? 

Curtain lining is an extra layer of fabric inside the curtain. It is sewn into the rear side of the curtain to serve various purposes. It may be that you need the curtains to block more light, you want to keep warm in winter, or you just want them to hang better and look nice from the outside.

Types of curtain lining 

The main types of curtain lining are:

• Plain lining
• Decorative lining
• Blackout lining 
• Interlining
• Thermal lined 

Let’s take a look at each in more detail: 

Plain lining

The most traditional way to line curtains is to use a plain cotton fabric in a stone or ivory colour. This is a simple solution, and the material used is inexpensive but effective. A plain lining will add thickness, which helps retain warmth and will help block some of the light. But cotton fabric alone is not designed to create a total blackout effect, so it may not be suitable if that’s what you’re looking for.

Decorative lining

If you prefer something a little different, why not consider a decorative lining? This can be a contrasting pattern or even the same pattern as the curtains in your room. This is a popular solution for people who live in a busy area and have lots of people coming and going past their windows. If you are going for a contrasting material, then pinstripes, ticking stripes or gingham checks are all very popular. Again, they add thickness to the curtains depending on the weight of the material used and will block out some light but not all.  

Blackout lining 

Blackout lining is usually reserved for bedrooms. Nurseries are also popular places to find blackout curtains as it helps children sleep longer in the light of summer months. This fabric also helps to block out car lights and street lights. Blackout lining has been specially designed to be thicker than standard curtain lining fabric to ensure that the light does not pass through. Because it’s thicker, it will also help retain heat in a room, and the curtains hang nicely because of the extra weight. Blackout material is also used in blinds, and if you really want to ensure a very dark room, then a blackout blind behind the curtains adds to the effect even more.

Interlining

Interlining is a third layer of lining. It fits between the main curtain and the standard lining and can serve a number of purposes. For example, if you want to use a decorative lining but the material isn’t as good at blocking light as you hoped, an interlining of blackout fabric gives you the finished effect of a double-sided curtain with no light able to pass through. Because there will be three layers of material in the finished curtain, it will be heavier in weight, which in turn gives a beautiful drape to the hang and helps to retain heat in a room where there may be draughts.

Thermal lined 

If the most important factor is retaining heat, then the thermal lining is probably the best solution. Using fabrics known to retain heat curtains with thermal lining up perfect for properties with older style windows and grade-listed buildings. In winter, they help keep the heat in, and in the height of summer, closing thermal lined curtains will help keep the heat out and the room cooler.

Do curtains need lining? 

The simple answer is no - curtains do not need a lining. However, there are several reasons why it is a good idea. If you have a bright and patterned print on your curtain and don’t have a lining, you will find that over time the sun will bleach parts of the curtain where it hits it and lose some of the colours. Having curtain lining also adds to the privacy in the room and, of course, helps insulate the space, meaning you can spend less on heating costs. If you have a fabric like wool for curtains, you may find that you can get away without lining, as this is a naturally thicker fabric.

Choosing the best curtain lining fabric 

Whether you’re looking for thermal insulated fabric or blackout material, there are various perfect lining fabrics for your curtains. Check out our selection of classic colours and high-quality options to match all types of curtains.