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What are the Best Materials for Heavy Curtains?

Pamela Pleasant
Pamela Pleasant

The best materials for heavy curtains are tightly woven, thick, and weighty. These types of curtains are mainly used to block out sunlight or to provide insulation for a room. Upholstery fabric is a thick, sturdy material that can be used to make heavy curtains. When choosing a window dressing fabric, the size and thickness of the window should be taken into consideration. Light fabrics can be used if the window is small.

Vinyl, acrylic, or plastic-coated materials can be used to make heavy curtains. This type of curtain is generally used to block out excessive noise or to soundproof a room. These acoustical drapes can absorb sound and work best when the home has thin walls. They are recommended for doorways or patio entrances. Vinyl curtains can also be used to eliminate dust particles if there is construction going on in the home.

Some curtains are made of tweed.
Some curtains are made of tweed.

Velour or velvet heavy curtains can provide a barrier against cold air penetrating the room. They are very stylish and come in an array of colors. These types of curtains can have distinctive designs and overlays, which can make them even more fashionable. For example, a valance can be used for added decoration. Puff heavy curtains are sewn horizontally for an old-fashioned look, and they can also provide extra protection against sound.

Silk may be used for curtains.
Silk may be used for curtains.

Flannel is a thick curtain material mainly used for blocking out the cold. It can also be used to reduce light. This type of material is not as thick as velvet or velour, but it can also be used to make heavy curtains. Occasionally, it is used as a backing or lining for lighter curtains.

Any type of curtain can be made into heavy curtains by sewing or tacking on a backing. Foam rubber, vinyl, and flannel can be attached to light curtains to make them less penetrable. Light silks, cottons, and tweed blends can also become more energy efficient by adding a lining behind the curtain. This also makes the curtain easy to clean because the lining usually collects most of the dirt. Many types already have a flannel backing.

Heavy curtains must cover the entire window to block noise or cold air. The sides of the window should also be covered. Valances and overlays can provide extra protection. Quilted backing can be used for extremely cold areas.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

If you are having a hard time deciding on heavy material for window curtains, you should take a trip to fabric store or hobby store. Many of these shops have numerous types of materials available, from shear to super heavy.

Not sure how to choose the best heavy material for your curtain making project? These types of stores usually have sales staff members on hand to help you decide. They also know how to help customers measure the amount of fabric needed, and will cut it to fit their needs.

Rundocuri

My aunt is an excellent seamstress and has made curtains out of a variety of materials. When it comes to making curtains from heavy materials, sometimes she has a difficult time finding what she likes, because she prefers prints and floral looks. She tried using an old quilt to make a curtain, and it turned out to be a very attractive, heavy curtain. Now she always recycles unused quilts and blankets into curtains for herself, family members, and friends.

Anyone who knows how to sew should give this a try. Not only does it create unique window dressing looks, but it also allows the sewer to recycle materials that may otherwise sit in a closet unused or be thrown out with the trash.

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    • Some curtains are made of tweed.
      By: ksushsh
      Some curtains are made of tweed.
    • Silk may be used for curtains.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Silk may be used for curtains.
    • Thick curtains can help keep rooms warmer during the winter, and can be somewhat useful for keeping rooms cooler in the summer as well.
      By: belikov
      Thick curtains can help keep rooms warmer during the winter, and can be somewhat useful for keeping rooms cooler in the summer as well.
    • A valance can improve the insulation of windows with drapes or curtains.
      By: Joy Fera
      A valance can improve the insulation of windows with drapes or curtains.