Does size matter when it comes to window coverings?

The hottest window coverings in interiors right now are Sheers. These soft, floaty Curtains enhance any space, adding an instant sense of luxury. Made from either a sheer fabric or linen, there are hundreds of options – in various textures, weaves, and in every colour of the rainbow. 

There’s more to Linen and Sheer Curtain fabrics than meets the eye though. I’m talking about fabric performance. Every fabric has different qualities, which can affect durability, how easy they are to clean, and other pros and cons.

So, before you jump ahead and get caught up in Curtain textures and colours, here’s some important things to be aware of about linen and sheer Curtain fabrics.  

Fabric Weight.

This refers to thickness of the threads that make up the material. While there’s no need to know the exact GSM (grams per square metre) of the fabrics you’re considering, it’s important to understand whether the fabric is lightweight and sheer, or a heavier weight that may also offer blockout.

Sheers.

By far the most popular Curtain fabrics in Australia at the moment are Sheers. They are translucent fabrics that offer daytime privacy, soften the appearance of spaces, and diffuse light beautifully. 

In bedrooms where you need to achieve total darkness and privacy at night, Sheer Curtains need to be layered with a heavier fabric or another window covering solution, such as a Roller Blind.

However, in main living areas where privacy may not be a concern, Sheer Curtains could be the only window treatment you need.

These issues have led to a fabulous range of linen-look Curtain fabrics becoming available at dollar curtains + blinds. Looking just like the real thing but made from polyester, these man-made fibres achieve the natural style without the downsides.

Linen-look and Sheer fabrics will:

• maintain their colour and shape
• not shrink and are less likely to wrinkle
• be easier to clean as they are generally stain-resistant and have good washability

Window coverings are a big investment so it’s important to select a fabric that will meet your lifestyle needs while achieving your desired style. Read more about curtain fabrics and performance.

With Australia’s largest range of Curtain fabrics to choose from, you can find an endless array of natural Linen, Linen-look and Sheer fabrics at your local dollar curtains + blinds store.

Fabric Material.

Another important aspect of the fabric is the type of material. This affects both the look and feel, and the performance of the fabric.

Linen Fabrics.

As the earthy trend continues to gain momentum in Australia, natural materials are gaining popularity. One of the most sought-after natural Curtain fabric materials is Linen. 

However, before selecting real Linen Curtain fabrics, there are a few things to be aware of:

• Linen colours fade in sunlight, and overtime this can create patchy and uneven Curtains
• the material creases and can have an odour, which dissipates over time
• Linen fabrics can shrink in humid environments, including when exposed to sunlight, in coastal regions or when used in bathrooms, meaning there can be movement in the length of your Curtains.

When designing Linen Curtains, it’s recommended to add more length to the drop to allow for this possible shrinkage i.e. design Linen Curtains to puddle on the floor. 

To overcome these issues, dollar curtains + blinds have a range of linen-look Curtain fabrics available. Made from polyester, or a polyester / linen blend, these high-quality fabrics look just like 100% Linen but offer superior performance and longevity. 

Velvet Fabrics.

Luxurious in nature, Velvet fabrics continue to be a popular choice with its soft and tactile handle. Velvet Drapes create an opulent look and are especially popular in stately homes and theatre rooms, often combined with custom made Pelmets.

Polyester fabrics or man made blends.

By far the most popular material for Curtains in Australia is polyester or a blend combining polyester or rayon with cotton, wool or linen. 

Man-made fibres have come a long way since the ‘70s and many have such a soft, luxurious or textured appearance that they look just like natural materials. 

Polyester fibres can be designed with a slubbed texture, creating a luxury look of a Dupion silk (pure silk) without compromising on performance. 

The benefits of polyester fabrics are they:

• are highly stain-resistant and easy to clean
• can resemble natural fabrics like cotton, linen and silk
• do not fade in sunlight
• are less likely to wrinkle and will not shrink
• often have good washability

How did you find the design + measure + install service?

I couldn’t fault it! I didn’t have to do a thing. I opened my door to the dollar curtains + blinds installer and closed it a few hours later with gorgeous Curtains, Blinds and Shutters installed.

Did you originally know what you were after in terms of window coverings or were you seeking our advice?

I’d say a little bit of both. I’ve always been drawn to the warm vibe and look the Sheer Curtains provide so that was a must. There were a few decisions such as Roller Blind vs Blockout Curtains and partial wall Curtains vs. wall to wall Curtains, that’s where Liz really helped with my indecisiveness.