HOW TO USE LININGS

You may be wondering about this blog heading and thinking that the answer is fairly obvious. However, as usual I am here to dispel the myths and mainstream beliefs, and show that lining fabrics are something that can be used in a variety of ways.

So firstly, the most recognised use for lining is as a backing on a curtain or blind, where it is attached at some point, such as sides and headings, to protect the main fabric, provide thermal benefits, and most importantly, block out the sun. In this type of manufacture, the lining and the face fabric trap a pocket of air between to give maximum insulation.

However, linings can also be “detachable”. In effect, the lining is sewn as a totally separate curtain and then attached to the main curtain at the back by way of shared hooks. Of course the main benefits as given in the previous scenario are present, but with a detachable lining, it can be removed for laundering, which makes the curtain lighter to handle. Also, if a lining gets water or sun damaged over time, it can be removed easily and a new detachable lining is added to the original curtain; much cheaper than unpicking and remaking.

In recent years, linings have become available in a myriad of colours. As such, this makes them useful as stand-alone curtains: particularly good for rental properties or the budget conscious. Rather than having two layers of fabric, you can have just one layer that gives light control and a certain amount of thermal protection.

Linings can also be paired with sheer curtains.

Many like the ambience and properties of a flowing sheer drape, but sometimes require the extra benefits that only a lining can provide. Instead of attaching the lining to the sheer (which would perhaps stretch the sheer over time), the lining is treated as a separate curtain and pleated, installed on a separate track. Coloured linings team up wonderfully with sheers and can often enhance the colour.

Last but certainly not least, linings are used “behind the scenes” as internal coverings for pelmets, underside of bedspreads and sometimes as just an extra layer to an item to give it more substance.

Ask us how linings can be used in your home.