Many homeowners find themselves with beautiful curtains that lack the functionality they need. Whether your existing curtains let in too much light, provide insufficient insulation, or simply don't hang as elegantly as you'd like, adding lining can transform them into the perfect window treatment. The good news is that yes, you absolutely can add lining to existing curtains, and it's often more cost-effective than purchasing entirely new window treatments.
Why Add Lining to Your Curtains?
Adding lining to existing curtains offers numerous benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics. Proper curtain lining can dramatically improve light control, helping you achieve complete blackout conditions for bedrooms or reducing glare in living spaces. The additional layer also provides enhanced insulation, keeping rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer, which can lead to significant energy savings.
From a design perspective, lined curtains hang more beautifully, creating elegant folds and maintaining their shape over time. The extra weight helps curtains drape properly, eliminating the limp appearance that unlined fabrics often display. Additionally, lining protects your curtain fabric from UV damage and fading, extending the life of your investment considerably.
Types of Curtain Lining Available
When considering adding lining to existing curtains, you'll encounter several options, each serving different purposes. Standard cotton lining is the most common choice, providing basic light filtering and improved drape. For superior light control, blackout lining incorporates a foam or acrylic backing that blocks virtually all light penetration, making it ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, or home cinemas.
Thermal lining takes insulation a step further, often featuring multiple layers or reflective materials that help regulate room temperature. Interlining, while technically a separate layer between the main fabric and lining, adds luxury and fullness to curtains while providing excellent insulation properties.
Methods for Adding Lining to Existing Curtains
There are several approaches to adding lining to your current curtains, depending on your skill level and desired outcome. The detachable lining method involves creating separate lined panels that hook onto your existing curtains, allowing you to remove them easily for washing. This approach works particularly well with curtains that have heading tape or eyelet tops.
Alternatively, you can sew lining directly onto existing curtains by carefully attaching it to the sides and bottom hem. This permanent method creates a more professional finish but requires moderate sewing skills. For those less confident with needlework, professional alteration services can add lining expertly, ensuring perfect results.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Deciding whether to tackle curtain lining as a DIY project or seek professional help depends on several factors. Simple detachable linings can often be managed by confident home sewers, particularly when working with straight-edged curtains and standard cotton lining. However, complex window treatments, expensive fabrics, or specialised linings like thermal or blackout materials may warrant professional attention.
Professional installation ensures precise measurements, proper hanging weight distribution, and flawless finishing. This is particularly important for made-to-measure curtains or when working with delicate fabrics that could be damaged during amateur alteration attempts.
Considerations Before Adding Lining
Before proceeding with lining addition, assess whether your existing curtain poles and fixings can support the additional weight. Lined curtains are significantly heavier than their unlined counterparts, and inadequate support can lead to sagging poles or wall damage.
Consider the curtain heading style as well, as some designs accommodate lining addition better than others. Tab-top or tie-top curtains may require modification to properly support lined panels, while pencil pleat or eyelet headings typically adapt more easily to additional lining.
Cost Considerations and Value
Adding lining to existing curtains typically costs significantly less than purchasing new lined curtains, making it an economical way to upgrade your window treatments. The investment often pays for itself through improved energy efficiency and extended curtain lifespan. Factor in the cost of materials, any professional services required, and potential upgrades to curtain hardware when budgeting for the project.
Maintenance and Care
Lined curtains require slightly different care than their unlined counterparts. Always check care instructions for both the main fabric and lining material, as they may have different requirements. Many lined curtains benefit from professional cleaning to ensure both layers are properly maintained without damage or shrinkage.
Conclusion
Adding lining to existing curtains is not only possible but often highly beneficial, offering improved functionality, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you choose to tackle the project yourself or engage professional services, the transformation can breathe new life into your current window treatments while providing enhanced comfort and style for years to come.