The type of lining used will affect the insulation value of the drapery, from little or no insulation to insulation that is as effective as hanging a quilt over the window.
Layering is the Key
The more layers of high-quality lining in a drapery, the better the insulation value. Custom-made drapery may have three or four linings that can, together with top treatments, rival the insulation factor of a 6-inch thick wall. Curtains can have removable linings attached at the ring or drapery pin, or additional drapery can be hung on separate rods to create a layered effect.
Blackout Lining
Blackout lining is a fabric that has been sprayed with acrylic or latex in two or three layers, on one side of a cotton or cotton blend fabric. This lining gives good insulating value and light does not pass through.
Flannel-backed Lining
One side of a cotton fabric is combed to create a flannelet-like surface. This fabric provides a medium insulation and allows some light to pass through. Good insulation is created by placing blackout lining between flannel-backed lining and the decorator fabric.
French Blackout
Heavy black flannel is placed between the decorator fabric and regular lining to create a full blackout, highly insulating drapery treatment.
Additional Considerations
Some drapery fabric is not washable, and blackout lining is not dry-cleanable. To solve potential laundering problems, install the layers on separate curtain rods. Adding layers to existing curtains will increase the weight of the coverings considerably.
The Drip Cap
- Curtains are fabric window treatments hung on a drapery rod by drapery pins or rings that open and close horizontally.
- If lining is added, curtains become draperies.
- Custom-made drapery may have three or four linings that can, together with top treatments, rival the insulation factor of a 6-inch thick wall.
- Heavy black flannel is placed between the decorator fabric and regular lining to create a full blackout, highly insulating drapery treatment.