Curtain Lining Fabric

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is curtain lining?

  Curtain lining is an extra layer of fabric that is attached to the back of a curtain. It can transform your curtains from something decorative to having a valued function. Choosing the correct lining for your curtains means you can block out unwanted light, save on energy costs by keeping a room insulated in the winter, and reduce outside noise.
  
  Curtain lining is also a popular choice if you want fuller looking curtains, to add shape, or by opting for a patterned lining you can ensure your curtains look as good from the outside as they do from inside. We stock a huge selection of curtain linings and our in-house team can help you when deciding what function you need your curtains to serve. 

   

• What are the different types of curtain lining?

  When you are choosing curtain lining, it’s important to understand what exactly curtain lining does, and what you want the curtains’ function to be.

• What is Interlining?

  Interlining is an extra layer of fabric that sits between the outer fabric and the lining and is popular if you need to add weight to a lighter fabric so that the curtains hang better, and they are more effective at insulating a room. Interlining gives the curtains a full and luxurious look.

• What are thermal lined curtains?

  Thermal lined curtains are usually double or triple layers, and the thermal lining has heat retention properties. They can help keep out drafts from windows and are a popular choice for anyone looking for ways to reduce their heating bill in winter, but also keep hot air out by reflecting it outside in the warmer months. Because of their thickness, they are the most effective at muffling noise from outside if you live in a built-up area or near a busy road.
  
  Read more about the best types of curtain lining for your needs.

• How to make lined curtains?

  We have an in-house team of experts creating video tutorials and instruction guides to help you with your next project, including this comprehensive step-by-step video guide on how to make high quality handmade lined curtains. 
  
  Alternatively, if you are still considering what curtain design would suit your needs, try our Inspiration Hub, which has articles offering advice, inspiration and how-to guides  on everything from interior trends, buying guides, and expert tutorials.

• How do you remove mildew from curtain lining?

  It’s unfortunately common to get black or green spots of mould or mildew on your curtains if you regularly get condensation in a room. The most effective way of removing mould is by doing a spot clean. You will need to unhook your curtains and use a hard bristle brush on the affected area with a mild stain remover (avoid anything containing bleach which will stain). This might slightly discolour the curtains, so keep that in mind and don’t use more force to clean the fabric than necessary.
  
  You can take steps to reduce the chances of having mould by keeping the room warm and well ventilated, investing in a dehumidifier, and replacing single-glazed windows with double glazing.

• Why should I use a lining with my curtains?

  Lining your curtains gives them a fuller, more luxurious drape while also protecting the fabric from fading in sunlight. A lining can also improve the longevity of your curtains by reducing wear on the main fabric. Beyond looks, linings are practical too, with thermal and blackout options offering extra insulation or light control. Whether you’re working with plain or patterned curtain fabric, adding a lining is a simple way to achieve a professional finish.

• Do I need a blackout lining for my curtains?

  A blackout lining is useful if you want to darken a room, reduce glare, or enjoy a better night’s sleep. They’re a popular choice for bedrooms, children’s rooms, and media rooms. If you prefer to keep natural light during the day, you may choose a standard or thermal lining instead. The good news is blackout linings also provide thermal benefits, making them a versatile option if you want to combine comfort with practicality.

• Can I add linings to ready-made or existing curtains?

  Yes, linings can be added to existing curtains if you’re comfortable with a little sewing. You can either stitch a lining directly into the header tape or create a detachable lining using hooks, which is particularly handy if you’d like the option of swapping between standard and blackout linings. This approach is popular for bedrooms, where blackout linings may be preferred only at certain times of the year.

• How much lining fabric will I need?

  As a general rule, you’ll need the same amount of lining fabric as your chosen curtain fabric. If your curtains are interlined, you’ll need the same quantity of interlining as well. To ensure the best results, always cut your lining fabric slightly shorter than the main curtain fabric so it doesn’t peek out at the bottom hem. For step-by-step help, see our curtain fabric measuring guide, which will also help you calculate lining requirements.