Laying draperies properly on the lining is key to getting beautiful, professional-looking window treatments. Proper lining application ensures the draperies hang properly, reduces wrinkles, and makes the fabric look its best. Here are some tips for laying draperies on the lining correctly.
Prepare the Lining
The first step is preparing the lining fabric.
- Cut the lining 2-3 inches wider and longer than the finished drapery to allow for hemming and headings.
- Interface the lining by fusing a medium-weight interfacing to the lining fabric. This adds body and helps the drapes maintain their shape.
- Stay-stitch 1/2” from raw edges of lining to prevent stretching and distortion.
Lay Out the Lining
- Lay out the lining wrong side up on a large flat surface. Make sure there are no wrinkles.
- Lay the drapery fabric right side up on top of the lining, matching and pinning raw edges.
- Smooth out both layers so there are no puckers or wrinkles. Adjust fullness evenly across the top.
Securing Drapery to Lining
There are a few options for securing the drapery to the lining:
Hand Tack Lining
- Use thread that matches the lining color.
- Make small stitches every 3-4 inches across the top to hold layers together.
- Avoid pulling drapery fabric as you sew to prevent distortion.
Fuse with Iron-on Adhesive
- Use a paper-backed fusible web tape.
- Lay tape between drapery and lining, paper side up.
- Press with an iron to bond layers together.
Sew Drapery to Lining
- Machine baste 1/2” from raw edges, stitching through both layers.
- Remove pins and pressing.
This keeps things tidy until you are ready for final construction.
Finishing Raw Edges
- Finish raw edges together neatly by serging or zigzag stitching.
- Or, you can fold over 1/2” on lining and stitch down to encase raw edges.
Now the drapery and lining are ready for creating headings, hems, pleats and final side seams. Taking care to properly lay in the lining first helps ensure draperies that hang beautifully!
Tips for Proper Lining Application
Here are some top tips for getting it right:
- Use a compatible, lightweight lining fabric like cotton sateen or polyester.
- Cut lining larger than drapery to prevent pulling or peeking out.
- Interface lining for added body and support.
- Lay in drapery smoothly and wrinkle-free.
- Secure layers together neatly and evenly.
- Finish raw edges cleanly.
- Hang drapes properly on a quality rod with rings or pins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes that can ruin the look of your draperies:
- Lining too short – causes visible wrinkles and pulling at hem.
- Lining too narrow – lining peeks out from pleats or edges.
- Forgetting interface – lining droops without support.
- Uneven gathering – creates uneven ripples.
- Raw edges not finished – looks unprofessional.
- Skimping on quality lining – cheapy lining hangs poorly.
- Improper hanging – drapes should puddle gracefully, not pull.
DIY Instructions for Laying Lining
Want to sew your own lined drapes? Follow these step-by-step instructions:
What You Need
- Drapery & lining fabrics
- Thread to match
- Interfacing
- Pins, scissors, measuring tape, etc.
Cutting
- Measure window and add desired hem, header, and side hem allowances.
- Cut lining and drapery fabrics to this measurement.
- Cut interfacing strips to fuse onto lining top.
Fusing Interfacing
- Fuse interfacing strips to lining wrong side at top edge.
Stay Stitching
- Stay stitch 1/2” from raw edges of lining piece to prevent stretching.
Laying Out
- Lay lining wrong side up on flat surface. Smooth any wrinkles.
- Lay drapery fabric right side up on top of lining, matching raw edges.
Securing Layers
- Hand tack or fuse layers together, or baste stitch along top raw edges.
Finishing Edges
- Serge or zigzag raw edges together to neatly finish seams.
- Press well from lining side. Now ready for hemming, headings, pleats!
FAQs About Lining Drapes
Should drapes be lined?
Lining is highly recommended for drapes, as it improves appearance, function, and longevity. Lining reduces sunlight damage, provides privacy, adds body, and helps drapes hang smoothly.
Is lining necessary for blackout drapes?
Yes, blackout drapery fabrics should always be lined to be effective. Lining blocks light from filtering through fabric weave. Interfacing also prevents light leakage at seams.
What color lining goes with drapes?
For sheer drapes, match the lining color to the wall color behind drapes. For opaque fabrics, use cream or Off-white lining for versatile style. Or match the drapery color for a flawless look.
What kind of fabric is good for drapery lining?
Lightweight cotton sateen or polyester fabrics are ideal. Avoid heavy, stiff linings. Breathable cotton provides insulation from sunlight. Polyester resists wrinkles well.
Can drapes be lined after sewing?
It is extremely difficult to line drapes properly after construction. Lining should always be applied flat before making pleats, headings, side seams and hems.
Does lining make drapes hang better?
Yes, a properly lined drapery hangs much nicer than an unlined one. The added body and structure lining provides allows drapes to form smooth, elegant folds.
Conclusion
Properly laying drapery fabric onto a lining before constructing window treatments is a crucial step. Taking the time to cut, interface, and secure the lining ensures beautifully hanging, wrinkle-free draperies. Correct lining application also increases durability and functionality. With the right techniques, materials, and care, you can create stunning lined draperies for your home.
