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Short answer
Interlining is a soft, blanket-like layer sewn between a curtain's face fabric and its lining. It gives curtains fuller, rounder folds and a luxurious weight, protects the face fabric, and adds some light and heat insulation. It suits formal French pleat curtains and thin or silky face fabrics, but adds weight and cost, and interlined curtains usually need professional cleaning.
What does interlining do?
- Fuller folds: the extra body makes pleats round and generous.
- Protects the face fabric from sun and wear.
- Insulation: an extra layer reduces heat and draughts through the curtain.
- Light: with a blackout lining behind, it helps a room get very dark.
- Sound: a heavier curtain softens echo. See Noise-Reducing Curtains.
Lining vs interlining
| Lining | Interlining | |
|---|---|---|
| Position | The back of the curtain | Between face fabric and lining |
| Seen from | Outside, through the window | Not seen |
| Main job | Protect, add body, block light | Fullness, weight and insulation |
| Types | Standard, blackout, thermal, dimout | Light, medium and heavy weights |
See Curtain Lining for the types of lining.
Is interlining worth it in Malaysia?
- Worth it for formal living and dining rooms, French pleat and hand-sewn headings, thin silky or linen-look face fabrics that need body, and hotel-style bedrooms.
- Skip it for sheers, rooms with heavy condensation, curtains you wash often, kitchens, and rental homes.
Watch out
Interlined curtains are heavier and hold moisture longer. In humid, air-conditioned rooms, keep them off cold glass and air the room, or they can grow mould. See Mouldy Curtains.
What should you plan for?
- Weight: tracks and motors must be rated for the extra weight. See Fabrics for Motorised Curtains.
- Stack-back: interlined curtains stack wider when open; extend the track.
- Cleaning: usually professional dry cleaning, because the layers can shrink differently. See Why Curtains Shrink.
- Cost: more fabric and more hand sewing.
Frequently asked questions
What is curtain interlining?
A soft, blanket-like layer sewn between the face fabric and the lining, giving fuller folds and extra insulation.
Is interlining the same as blackout lining?
No. Blackout lining sits at the back and blocks light; interlining sits in the middle and adds body and insulation. They are often used together.
Can interlined curtains be washed?
Usually not at home. The layers can shrink differently, so professional cleaning is safer.
Do I need interlining in Malaysia?
Only for formal, full curtains or thin face fabrics. Most Malaysian homes use a lining alone.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.