Voile Fabric

Voile is a lightweight, semi-sheer fabric made from 100 percent cotton or a cotton-blend. It is known for its fine, plain weave and soft, silky handle. Its most popular uses include making sheer privacy curtains, lightweight summer clothing like blouses and dresses, and decorative draping for events and weddings.

Many people prefer voile over traditional net curtains because it has a much softer, more sophisticated drape and a smoother finish. While net curtains often have a structured, patterned lace look, voile offers a clean and contemporary aesthetic that diffuses light beautifully while still providing privacy from the outside.

Because voile is often made from natural cotton fibres, it can be prone to slight shrinkage during the first wash. We recommend pre-washing your voile fabric on a cool, gentle cycle before you start sewing. For voile curtains, air-drying is best to maintain the delicate weave and prevent permanent creasing.

Voile is relatively stable for a lightweight fabric, but its sheer nature means it can be slightly slippery. We recommend using a brand new, fine needle (size 60 or 70) and high-quality thread to prevent snagging. For a professional finish on sheer seams, many dressmakers use a French seam to hide the raw edges inside the garment.