Difference Between Interlining & Lining Drapes

Drapery Basics

• Draperies come not only in a variety of designs, colors and textures but in many different types of fabrics as well. People can choose from ready-made drapes, custom order them or pick a fabric and sew their own. Some fabrics used for draperies are heavier or more opaque than others are and provide privacy. However, the use of linings and interlinings can make even a lightweight or sheer fabric opaque and help give privacy and block light. Although draperies are generally lined, they do not always have an interlining.

Lining Basics

• A lining protects the back of the drapes from light and dust. Light can fade colors and weaken the drapery fabric, particularly materials such as cotton or silk. Lining fabrics are generally less expensive than the material used for draperies. In addition, linings for drapes are often plain white, since people can see the lining through the window from the street. However, sometimes linings come in a color that contrasts or coordinates with that of the drapes.

Interlining Basics

• An interlining goes between the drapery fabric and the lining. The color does not matter unless it shows through the drape or lining material. Interlining provides insulation; heavy, formal drapes are often interlined. However, in draperies made of a lightweight, open-weave fabric, adding an interlining helps to soften the light that filters through. Draperies do not have to have a lining, unless they are interlined. Then they always need a lining.

Miscellaneous

• You would cut the lining material to dimensions slightly longer and wider than the finished measurements of the drapes. Measuring from the base of the heading to the hemmed length of the drape, you add 2.75 inches to the length and 1.5 inches to the width. In contrast, you cut the interlining fabric to the same dimensions as the finished drapery. The reason for that is the purpose of the lining, which is to protect the drapery fabric. In finished drapes, the lining and drapery fabrics enclose the interlining.