A Guide To The Type Of Curtain Materials Available In The Market

A home without curtains is a house with plain 4 walls. Curtains make the house attractive and compelling. It sets the colour theme of the house and is the deciding factor in the choice of upholstery and wallpaper covers. Depending upon the season and type of décor, a curtain comes in many different kinds of fabrics. It is very important to make the right curtain fabric choice as it provides intricacy and a final touch to the home décor. Characteristics such as texture, transparency, fabric feel, colour, maintenance, et cetera, are important factors that determine the choice of the curtain.

Types of curtain material

Following are the type of materials that are used to make curtains:

Polyester

Polyester is a famous and common choice of fabric among users. It is known for its qualities such as durability, sturdiness, and affordability. The material has low maintenance since it is easy to care for. It does not require regular care as it does not wrinkle easily and can be washed easily as well. Generally, people opt for this as a choice for their bedrooms and living rooms. Polyester is highly flammable. Hence, it is avoided for outdoor fittings and inside the kitchen. It is a man-made material. Thus, it comes in a wide range of patterns, textures, and styles.

Linen

Linen fabrics are generally on the expensive side. Linen curtains give an aesthetic look. It has a little bit of transparency; hence it is perfect for dining rooms, living rooms, and the hall. Because of its transparency, it allows sunlight to pass through, giving the area a tailored look, perfect for any occasion. Such materials require a little bit of maintenance but only permit dry cleaning. It needs regular care to avoid any kind of wrinkling. Generally, light-coloured linen curtains are preferred. Due to its rich texture, it gives a feeling of ‘royalty’ to the house and makes the house look exquisite.

Cotton

Cotton curtains are the traditional style of decorating the house. Curtain panels, curtain rings, and clips are used to hold the curtains from one end to the other. One can still see old houses having this style of curtains. Cotton curtains give an all-around feel to the house. They are clean, frangible, and give a standard look. Depending upon the type of weave, cotton curtains are of two types – tight weave and light weave. A tight weave provides less transparency and hence gives a sense of privacy in the living room as it blocks the view to outsiders. A light weave provides room for sunlight. Cotton curtains have always been a go-to choice for curtain material. It is easy to care for and an excellent choice for rooms.

Silk

Silk curtains are known for their rich texture and aesthetic look. It was the perfect curtain fabric choice in the past as it was used in palaces and luxurious houses. The material is heavier than others; hence it drapes almost perfectly. It is ideal for bedrooms or dining rooms as it gives a romantic outlook to the entire house. Just like linen, silk is also dry clean only. Without a doubt, silk is a high-maintenance material. When exposed to sunlight, it becomes highly susceptible to damage. Hence any silk material used for windows requires additional protection and care.

Velvet

Velvet curtains are used in the cold region as they are heavy and act as an insulator to the outside cold weather. Due to its bold thickness, it also provides extra privacy as it easily blocks light and sound. Velvet has a fine texture and feel. Because of its heaviness, it drapes well and gives a polished appearance.