Creating curtains with interlining is a rewarding DIY project that not only adds elegance and insulation to your home but also provides a professional finish to your window treatment. Interlined curtains have a luxurious drape and help block drafts, reduce outside noise, and preserve room temperature. Whether you’re updating an existing room or making new curtains from scratch, using interlining enhances the fabric’s appearance and functionality. By following a step-by-step method, you can create high-quality curtains tailored to your personal style and home décor needs.
Understanding Interlining and Its Benefits
What is Interlining?
Interlining is a soft layer of fabric placed between the decorative fabric and the curtain lining. It adds body and structure to the curtain, improving how it hangs and folds. Typically, interlining is made from cotton bump, flannel, or a synthetic blend. It serves as a hidden layer that enhances the insulation and aesthetic quality of your curtains.
Advantages of Using Interlining
- Provides thermal insulation to keep rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer
- Improves sound insulation, reducing outside noise
- Enhances the fullness and luxurious appearance of curtains
- Protects the outer fabric from sun damage by minimizing exposure
- Helps the curtains drape better for a tailored finish
Materials and Tools Needed
- Main curtain fabric (decorative outer layer)
- Interlining fabric
- Lining fabric (usually cotton or polyester)
- Measuring tape
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins and sewing clips
- Sewing machine
- Thread to match your fabric
- Iron and ironing board
- Header tape or curtain tape (optional, for pleating)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Interlined Curtains
Step 1: Measure the Window
Start by measuring the width and length of your window. Decide how far above the window frame you want your curtains to hang and how long they should be. For fullness, your curtain width should be 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window. Add extra inches for seam allowances and hems.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric Layers
Cut your main fabric, lining, and interlining according to your measurements. The decorative outer fabric should be the largest. Cut the lining and interlining slightly smaller, typically 12 inches narrower and shorter, to allow the main fabric to wrap slightly around the edges for a clean finish.
Step 3: Join the Interlining to the Lining
Lay the lining fabric face down on a flat surface. Place the interlining on top, aligning the edges. Pin or baste the two fabrics together. This will act as a single unit when attached to the main fabric. Some sewers prefer stitching vertical channels every 18 to 24 inches to keep the interlining from shifting.
Step 4: Assemble the Curtain
Place the main fabric right side up. Lay the joined lining and interlining unit on top, right side down, with edges aligned. Pin around the sides and bottom, leaving the top edge open. Sew around the pinned edges with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, and trim the corners to reduce bulk.
Step 5: Turn and Press
Turn the curtain right side out through the top opening. Push out the corners carefully for a sharp edge. Lay the curtain flat and press all the seams with a warm iron. The decorative fabric should wrap slightly around the edges, hiding the lining.
Step 6: Hem the Curtain
Fold up the bottom edge to the desired length and press a clean hem. You can either hand-sew the hem for an invisible finish or use a sewing machine with a straight stitch. If the curtain is heavy, a double-fold hem will provide added weight and better drape.
Step 7: Finish the Top Edge
Fold down the top edge and press it in place. If you’re adding header tape for pleating, now is the time to sew it across the top. If not using tape, you can simply fold and stitch the top edge or create a casing for a curtain rod.
Tips for Professional Results
- Use high-quality thread to ensure strong seams, especially for heavier fabrics.
- Press every seam and fold during construction for clean lines and sharp edges.
- If using patterned fabric, make sure to align patterns for symmetrical curtain panels.
- Hang the curtains for a few days before hemming the bottom to allow the fabric to settle.
- Consider using curtain weights in the hem to improve the drape and prevent billowing.
Customizing Your Interlined Curtains
Choosing the Right Fabric
Heavier fabrics like velvet, brocade, or tweed pair well with interlining and create a rich, dramatic effect. For a lighter look with insulation benefits, cotton or linen also works well. Your fabric choice should match your room’s décor and the curtain’s functional needs.
Pleating and Heading Styles
You can customize the curtain top with different header styles:
- Pencil pleats: Classic and versatile
- Pinch pleats: Formal and tailored appearance
- Eyelets or grommets: Contemporary and easy to slide
- Rod pocket: Simple and traditional for lightweight curtains
Color and Lining Choices
Neutral linings are often preferred for a uniform appearance from the outside. Blackout lining can be added alongside interlining for maximum light control and insulation. Choose linings that match or complement your main fabric, especially if your curtain opens to reveal the back.
Maintaining Interlined Curtains
Cleaning and Care
Interlined curtains are typically dry-clean only, especially when made from delicate or heavy fabrics. Regularly vacuum the surface with a soft brush attachment to remove dust. Avoid machine washing, which can damage the interlining layer and cause shrinkage or distortion.
Storage
If removing the curtains seasonally, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid folding the curtains in sharp creases; instead, roll or loosely fold them with acid-free tissue to maintain the shape.
Making curtains with interlining is a fulfilling project that combines creativity and functionality. By investing time into careful measurements, thoughtful fabric selection, and precise construction, you can create custom window coverings that not only look beautiful but also improve your home’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re looking to upgrade a living room, bedroom, or study, interlined curtains add a touch of sophistication while offering practical benefits year-round.