Fabric Choices for Draperies

An important question to ask when choosing draperies is: Which fabric really is right for my window? The fabric you choose for your draperies will set the style and mood of the room. Different fabrics will produce and provide different results. We will go through some different fabrics and the qualities they possess.

Nylon is versatile, elastic and light weight. This fabric has been around since the 1940’s and has since come along way. Sheers are usually made from this fabric. Sheers hung alone or with draperies create a free flowing romantic atmosphere.

Rayon is an example of a versatile fabric. This fabric possesses many of the great qualities of cotton, it definitely wrinkles less than linen and can provide the same sleek texture of silk for much less the cost. Rayon blends well with other fibers lie: cotton, linen, and acetate to create damasks, satins, brocades as well as velvets.

Polyester should not be discounted just because of the double knit phase of the 1950s. This fabric hangs well, resists creasing, shrinking and stretching along with being wrinkle and rot resistant. Polyester is a very care free fabric. Also it blends well with other fabrics and is affordable.

Acrylic is a fine, soft and luxurious fabric that will surprise you. Light weight and durable, this fabric is non-allergenic and will not fade or rot. Acrylic does not tolerate heat. Mod-acrylic fabrics are flame resistant. Fire retardant draperies are required by the California State Fire Marshall to be placed in certain public facilities such as government buildings.