Types of cotton fabric
There are many different types of cotton fabric. The most popular ones used for curtain fabric include sateen, muslin, velveteen, calico and gingham. Lighter weight cotton is best suited to clothes but medium and heavier weight cottons are perfect for furnishing fabrics.
Cotton is often mixed with other fabrics such as linen, polyester and viscose. Mixing a cotton fabric with linen produces a more luxurious fabric but will be prone to creasing, however if your are looking for a relaxed look then this mix is great. Cotton fabric can also be mixed with a synthetic such as polyester or viscose, this will produce a hard wearing fabric that is generally more crease resistant than pure cotton.
Is cotton fabric suitable for making curtains?
This fabric is an ideal choice for curtain fabric as it drapes nicely and is easy to sew. If you are making curtains for the first time then a cotton fabric would be a good choice for your first project. There are hundreds of fabrics to choose so whether you want a plain or a printed fabric you will be able to find a cotton fabric with the design and colour you are looking for.
Cotton fabric is also the ideal choice for roman blinds as it's texture will allow the blinds to fall easily into neat pleats. A many cotton fabrics are washable it's also a good choice for cushions.
Advantages and disadvantages of using cotton fabric
One of the main advantages is that it is a natural product which is popular with consumers. Cotton fabric is less expensive than some fabrics, so can be a good choice if you are working to a budget. Some cotton fabrics are washable so an ideal choice if you are using in an area where your curtains need to be washable for example, in a kitchen or child's bedroom. However, care needs to be taken as a disadvantage with this fabric is that it can shrink if washed in very hot water.
Cotton fabric can fade and weaken if used in direct sunlight so this should be taken into account when choosing as an upholstery fabric in a sunny room.
