When it comes to new curtains there are several fabric samples available with a lot of choice. Some of the most common types of curtain materials are cotton, silk, and linen. Other than these, there are other options available that can be considered too. Below is the list of types of materials available for curtains.
Cotton
Cotton is a common fabric used in a range of styles. It provides a crisp feel that suits traditional or modern styles. It is a very light fabric. These curtains do need to be properly lined and they can be hung and fall as desired. If you want to block sunlight in a bright room then choose cotton with a tight weave or well lined.
Silk
Silk has its own luxury where no other curtain material does. Know that silkis chosen for its aesthetic appeal rather than functionality. It is a heavy fabric and drapes well. It looks superbly romantic in bedrooms or formal dining rooms.
Silk is dry-clean only and very resistant to sun damage. If the room has a lot of incoming natural light then you have to protect them by using a roller blind underside or a lighter colored panel for lining. You can also opt for a silk-look polyester fabric for extra durability.
Linen
It is a natural fiber and its billowy look creates an airy and relaxed environment. If you want the look of curtains that pool on the floor then linen is the best choice. It won’t block the sun and just like silk, it is dry-clean only.
Polyester
It is a very common choice for people as polyester is durable, affordable and easy to care for. It doesn’t wrinkle, stretch or shrink. You can choose polyester for bedroom or living areas, but avoid it in the kitchen because it’s flammable and does not allow good airflow and absorbs odors.
Velvet
It is made up of either natural or synthetic fibers. If you want glamour, richness, and elegance in a room then you should pick velvet. It is thick and heavy which makes it great for blocking out cold air, light and sound: moreover, it drapes well and gives rooms a regal look.
Acrylic
It is a similar texture to wool. Acrylic is a lightweight fabric that drapes beautifully and offers great insulation. These curtains disperse moisture and they are hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and mildew.
Rayon
This type of material can be woven with natural fibers to attain a diversity of textures. It is soft, tough, and breathable.
Lace
These curtains are very traditional and romantic. It is best used to offer privacy and diffuse natural light. These materials come in neutral shades and are easily coordinated with other colors in the room.
Voile
Voile is a crisp and open weave material that is best utilized for sheers. It collects and drapes amazingly, creating a light and airy ambience while maintaining a high level of privacy.
Sheer curtains
These curtains are used more for their aesthetics as you can see through these thin transparent curtains. They are usually usedas an inner layer rather than on its own. These curtain materials are combined with a heavier curtain in the front, or with a blind behind.
Damask and Brocade
These are specialty drapery materials with floral and other patterns on the surface. Damask has a two-tone design: two tones of the same color. In Brocade fabric you will see such richness in patterns in various colors. They can be made using cotton or silk fibers which are very luxurious as well as expensive. It may need to be lined to preserve their patterns and drape.
Regular curtains
The curtain materials which are not seen throughneed a durable opaque fabric that has high thread count. At the same time they have a great drape and will fall gracefully. These are usually used as decorator weight fabrics or drapery weight fabrics.
Not all the fabrics in a decor store are made equally. Some of them are made for bed sheets, covering your sofa, or marked as upholstery. These are not really suitable for making curtains.
