Draperies are extremely important from a practical as well as an aesthetic point of view. It makes your house look vibrant and ties the other elements of decoration in unity. It also helps in keeping excessive heat and light away from the room.
Choosing the right drapery is very important to achieve the effect you are aiming at. There are secret drapery secrets no one is telling you. Choosing the right fabric for your drapery is one of those. Most people do not pay much attention to the fabric of the drapery they are purchasing, but it makes a lot of difference that we will explore in this article. Therefore, without further ado, let us dive straight into it.
Why Does Fabric Matter?
While there has always been more emphasis on the colour and pattern of drapery, the fabric is a determining factor in usability. The right fabric ensures that your drapery will hold up to wear and tear without weighing on you. It also blocks the right amount of sunlight. And lastly, a good fabric will hang well and look good.
Criteria to Choose a Fabric
Density
The density of your drapery will decide how much natural light your room will receive. The thicker your fabric is, the more light it will keep out. Thus, if you live in an area of high natural light exposure, go for thick fabric.
Weight
If your drapery is lightweight, it can be easily blown by the winds, but the drapery will stay put in the face of low to the medium wind if you have heavy ones. At the same time, heavy drapery is more difficult to wash and maintain.
Color
Colours are important to make a room look good and determine the opacity of the material. Dark colours will be more opaque than lighter ones. However, dark colours fade quicker when exposed to regular sunlight. The same colour on two different kinds of fabric can have a very different layout and impact on the room. Thus, be very careful about choosing the right one.
Fabric Types
Whether you are going for a custom-made drapery or buying from a drapery store, having the right knowledge about the fabrics is very important.
Cotton
Cotton draperies are lightweight and sober. They render a crisp and formal look and hence perfect for formal dining and meetings. There are also different styles and patterns available in this fabric. However, since it is easily flammable, try to keep it away from the fireplace or the kitchen. To add some density and weight to the drapery, add a lining to it.
Velvet
Velvet curtains are the best for insulation for they are thick and can keep cold and light out significantly. On the other hand, it makes the bedroom or the living room look very regal. However, washing and maintaining velvet draperies can be very taxing.
Linen
Linen fabric is great for simple decor. It renders a very sophisticated and minimalistic look. Although it wrinkles easily, it is quite simple to maintain and wash. It is neither too thick nor too heavy, which makes it ideal for hot and humid regions. The fabric allows air to flow in and out, preventing the room from getting suffocating.
Silk
Silk is a very luxurious fabric and apt for posh homes and upscale interiors. Although polyester drapes mimic the look of silk, they cannot bring about the aesthetic note of the fabric. So, if you want to indulge in luxury, this could be your way to go.
Lace
Lace draperies are great for stylish and romantic window treatment options. They look extremely serene and light up the room. This fabric is available mostly in neutral colours. They can be easily coordinated with the colour scheme of any room. You can hang them on the doors and windows to give you a sense of privacy without blocking the source of natural light.
Thermal
Living in a chillier climate means you must choose the fabric of your draperies even more wisely. Thermal draperies are made of cotton or polyester that work best for insulating drafty windows.
Acrylic
Acrylic is similar to wool but much lighter in weight. It provides enough insulation and drapes beautifully. The fabric does not allow mildew or mould growth and is also hypoallergenic. If you are troubled by allergic reactions, acrylic fabric is your pick.
You must know and understand the advantages and disadvantages of every fabric and the essential differences between them. Then, once you have done your homework on draperies, it will be easy to pick up the right one.
