Curtain Fabric

The ideal lining depends on the room’s function. For bedrooms and nurseries, a high-density three-pass blackout lining is best as it completely blocks light and aids sleep cycles. For draughty sitting rooms or older properties, a thick thermal sateen lining is highly recommended to trap heat and prevent energy loss. For standard decorative drapes, a lightweight poly-cotton blend lining provides excellent protection against sun damage while enhancing the natural drape.

While both options offer insulating properties, their primary manufacturing functions differ. Blackout curtain lining features a special micro-coating that physically seals the weave of the fabric, preventing 100% of light rays from passing through. Thermal curtain lining, on the other hand, is specifically engineered to trap pockets of air within its fibres. It regulates room temperature by reflecting heat back into the space during winter and blocking external solar heat during summer, though it may still let soft ambient light filter through.

While not strictly mandatory for lightweight summer voiles, lining your homemade curtains is highly recommended for standard window dressings. A quality lining adds essential weight and structure, helping your headers cascade into neat, professional folds. Furthermore, linings act as a sacrificial shield against intense UV rays, preventing your beautiful face fabrics from fading or deteriorating over time, while dramatically improving privacy and thermal insulation.

To calculate your required yardage, first measure the length of your curtain track or pole (not the window itself) and multiply it by your desired fullness multiplier (typically 2x for standard pencil pleat or eyelet headers) to find the total width. Divide this number by the width of the fabric roll (usually 137cm or 147cm) to determine how many vertical drops you need. Finally, multiply the number of drops by your finished curtain length plus 30cm for top and bottom hem allowances. Always add a pattern repeat allowance if using printed designs.