Choosing your lining

Choosing Lining

While not necessary for a counter or cafe curtain, a lining is desirable for a window curtain to help give structure, block out light and retain warmth.

What is a lining?

Essentially any piece of fabric will work as a lining, and if your room doesn't require complete darkness, it needn't be blackout. For a starter project, just a simple piece of cotton would work really well.

Different types of professional lining

Blackout

As the name suggests, this will block out all the light. Go for a thermal, 3 pass blackout lining.

Plain sateen lining

This is a slightly thinner cotton backing, but will still provide the required weightiness to give your curtains a nice structure.

Ticking stripe

An attractive choice if the back of your curtain will be visible. While ticking stripe fabric is affordable, it's not as cheap as a plain sateen lining.

Interlining

This sits between the face fabric and the lining. It helps the face fabric come alive and feel more full and luxurious. Practically, it also adds warmth and provides an additional layer to dampen sound.

How much lining to buy should I buy?

Exactly the same quantity as your face fabric.