Picking the Right Curtain Fabric: A Guide for You
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What to Think About When Choosing Fabric
When you're looking for fabric to make your curtains, there are a few things to consider. Besides the color and pattern, you need to take a closer look at the fabric’s qualities. Is it stain resistant? Is it durable? Is it easy to clean? If you're spending time and energy making your own curtains, you'll want a fabric that can handle everyday messes and challenges.
We recommend using synthetic performance fabrics for your curtains. These upholstery fabrics are easy to clean and have built-in stain-resistance technology. They also stay colorful and bright. Performance fabrics are solution-dyed, meaning the color penetrates the fiber’s core. This means that the color will not fade in the sun, even after years. This makes performance fabrics a great choice for your patio as well as in your home.
You might be wondering, "Why use upholstery fabric? Aren't curtains supposed to be light and airy?" Well, we think upholstery fabric is a great choice for curtains and drapes. The DIY experts at Sailrite® found that heavier upholstery fabric lasts longer and looks better. It also holds pleats really nicely, which makes your curtains look beautiful and full. Plus, heavy upholstery fabric doesn't wrinkle as much as thin, sheer drapery fabric. That means less work to keep them looking good.
One more thing to think about is insulation. If your windows aren't great at keeping out the cold or heat, using heavy fabric for your curtains can help. Curtains can keep your home cozy and lower your energy bills. You can easily find heavy fabric on our website. Look for the "Weight" info on the fabric pages – the heavier it is, the better it'll insulate your windows.
Top Fabric Brands for Curtains
Now, let's talk about some of the best fabric brands for making curtains. These brands offer high-quality fabric that's great for curtains. They come in lots of colors and patterns, so you can find something that matches your home's style.
Crypton Home Fabric:
Crypton fabrics are made to handle real-life messes. Whether your home is filled with sticky-fingered children or rowdy pets, Crypton fabrics can handle it all. Designed with intelligent stain- and bacteria-resistant technology, simply wipe up spills and brush off dirt — it’s that easy. These fabrics come in soft chenilles and velvets, with nice neutral colors.
Why Choose Crypton?
- Indoor-only upholstery fabric.
- Liquids roll off the fabric; other stains are easily spot-treated.
- Proprietary stain- and odor-resistant technology.
- Beautiful neutrals and solids in soft chenille and velvet fabrics.
- Two-year limited warranty.
Outdura Upholstery Fabric:
Just like Sunbrella, Outdura fabrics are solution-dyed performance fabrics that won’t fade in the sun. These fabrics are easy to keep clean and are very durable and long-lasting. Your curtains will look brand-new for years. You can choose from a large selection of colors and patterns to match your style. Hundreds of Outdura fabrics are in stock and ready for your home. You’ll love working with this easy-to-sew fabric.
Why Choose Outdura?
- Indoor/outdoor performance fabrics.
- Highly fade resistant; durable.
- Stain resistant and easy to clean.
- Large selection of colors and patterns to choose from.
- 10-year limited warranty.
Shop Outdura Upholstery Fabrics
Sunbrella Upholstery Fabric:
Sunbrella is a well-known name in fabrics. Their solution-dyed acrylic fabrics don't fade in the sun, which is perfect for rooms with lots of sunlight. Sunbrella upholstery fabrics are indoor/outdoor fabrics, so you can even use them outside on your porch or patio. These fabrics are tough and can resist stains, which is great if you have kids or pets.
Why Choose Sunbrella?
- Indoor/outdoor performance fabrics.
- Highly fade resistant; durable.
- Stain resistant and easy to clean.
- Wide variety of colors and patterns to choose from.
- Five-year limited warranty.
Shop Sunbrella Upholstery Fabrics
Making Your Curtains Even Better
If you want curtains that block out all the light, you can add an extra layer of lining fabric. This blackout lining also helps your curtains last longer and look better. It can make your curtains feel thicker and more luxurious. Plus, it helps keep your home at the right temperature, which can save you money on energy bills.
Shop Blackout & Lining Fabrics
Ready to Begin?
This guide should help you pick the perfect fabric for your curtains. Whether you're looking for performance, style or both, there's a fabric out there for you. When you're ready to start making your curtains, check out our curtain and window treatment projects. We have videos that show you every step, from measuring to sewing and installing them. Get ready to create curtains that make your home look amazing!
