When it comes to velvet curtains, lining them can be helpful for a number of reasons. Heavier fabrics like velvet tend to block more light than thinner fabrics, so a lining helps to keep out extra light, making the room darker.
Lining also helps to better insulate the space, as the lining will provide an additional layer of protection from heat loss. In addition, a lining adds an extra layer of fabric, which can help to reduce wear and tear on the outer fabric.
This will also help to keep the light from fading the velvet over time. Depending on the humidity in the room, a lining may help to reduce the formation of mildew on the fabric. Ultimately, it is up to the homeowner on whether they choose to line their velvet curtains, as everyone’s needs and preferences are different.
How do you line a velvet curtain?
To line a velvet curtain, you need to have the right tools and materials. You will need a heavy-duty sewing machine, various needles based on the fabric, a measuring tape, scissors, pins, and a product that is specifically designed to line velvet curtains.
Additionally, you will need the velvet curtain, extra fabric for the lining, and an iron.
Begin by measuring the length of the curtain, as well as the length of fabric you will need for the lining. Cut the fabric so that it is an inch longer than the curtain. Iron the fabric on one side. Then, iron the curtain on both sides.
Unfold the velvet curtain and its lining—lining side down—and pin the two pieces together.
Next, set your sewing machine for a medium stitch length, and use the appropriate needle for velvet. Begin to sew the layers together along the top. Try to keep the stitching as close to the top as possible, so that it catches the lining and creates a nice, finished look.
Re-pin the layers when you need to as you sew.
When you reach the end, double-back and stitch the ends together to keep the two pieces from coming apart. Be sure to cut off any excess fabric, leaving approximately ¼-inch around the edges. When you’ve finished stitching both sides, take the time to iron your velvet curtain before hanging it up.
What lining do you use for velvet?
When it comes to lining velvet, it is important to use the right material, as this can make a world of difference in how the garment looks, feels and wears. Satin is the most commonly used lining for velvet due to its smooth feel, beautiful sheen and comfortable drape.
It is also very forgiving when it comes to any irregularities in the fabrication of your velvet, making it an ideal choice. Another popular option is silk, although this is usually more expensive than satin and may be a more difficult substrate to sew on.
Polyester and rayon can both be used as a lining for velvet as well, however these options may not drape as nicely. Polyester is typically used more often for jackets and tends to be easier to sew. Rayon is usually more lightweight and can be used for both skirts and dresses; however, this fabric may not provide as much structure as the other options.
Does velvet need interfacing?
It depends on the project. If you are working with lightweight velvet, such as silk velvet, then interfacing probably isn’t necessary. However, if the velvet is thicker and sturdier, interfacing can help keep the structure of the garment and prevent the fabric from stretching or wrinkling in areas that experience stress such as necklines, pocket openings, waistbands, and hemlines.
Additionally, interfacing can sometimes help the velvet fabric keep its shape or even provide a different texture. When interfacing for velvet, it’s best to choose an interfacing that is the same weight and color as the velvet to ensure the most discreet attachment.
Fusible interfacings are ideal since they are easy to use and attach with an iron. It’s also essential to pay attention to the washability and temperature settings of the interfacing and fabric to avoid damaging them during washing and ironing.
Can I use fusible interfacing on velvet?
Yes, you can use fusible interfacing on velvet. However, it is important to make sure you use a lightweight fusible interfacing so it does not add too much weight or bulk to the velvet fabric. If a heavier interfacing is used, it may affect the drape of the fabric and the velvet may not have its signature soft appearance.
Additionally, you should test a small section of the fabric to ensure the fusible interfacing does not make the velvet stiff or leave an unwanted residue behind. When ironed, be sure to use the lowest setting available, and it might be beneficial to use a pressing cloth or damp towel when pressing to protect the velvet from heat damage.
What happens if I don’t use interfacing?
If you don’t use interfacing when sewing, you may encounter several problems. For example, the garment may be more likely to hold wrinkles and creases. In addition, the fabric’s shape may not remain intact over time, as interfacing helps to give structure to the fabric and provide greater stability.
Furthermore, the garment may not be as tailored, giving the fit a more boxy shape, and the fabric can become heavier and bulkier, making it difficult to sew evenly. Finally, depending on the fabric, the material may stretch or tear more easily.
For these reasons, it is important to use interfacing whenever possible in order to achieve a better-looking, more professional result.
Can you scotchguard velvet?
No. Scotchgard is designed to work on fabrics and other porous surfaces to resist stains, but a chemical protection product is not recommended for velvet fabric as it can damage the fibers and ruin the fabric’s soft and supple texture.
Applying any type of liquid or product containing chemicals onto velvet fabric can cause discoloration or fading. Additionally, the polishing or protective agents usually contain oils that can harm velvet.
It is best to protect your velvet fabric without using liquid products; instead opt for dusting and cleaning with a vacuum cleaner. Additionally, you can remove spills and stains with a dry cloth or brush and steam cleaning is also a great option for removing dirt.
Maintaining your velvet fabric by regularly vacuuming it and using a lint roller (if necessary) to get rid of pet hair will help keep it looking its best for years to come.
Which way does the nap go on velvet?
When putting a nap on velvet, it is important to make sure that it goes in the same direction across the entire fabric. This means that if the nap is running up, it should remain running up across the fabric, and if the nap is running down, it should remain running down across the fabric.
To determine which direction the nap should go, you should always stroke the fabric in one direction. If the fabric feels smooth and slightly raised in this direction, the nap is running up. If it feels smoother and slightly indented in the same direction, the nap is running down.
Once the direction of the nap is determined, run a comb in that direction to ensure that the nap remains consistent.
How do you finish velvet edges?
To finish velvet edges, start by trimming the excess fabric off with sharp scissors. Then, create a folded edge along one side of the velvet and use an iron to heat set the edge. After the edge has cooled, use a coordinating all-purpose thread and sewing machine to stitch along the folded edge.
You can use standard straight stitches, decorative stitches, or binding if desired. Finally, trim any loose thread from the edges and brush the velvet with a lint roller or soft-bristled brush.
Can I steam velvet curtains?
Generally, it is not recommended to steam velvet curtains because the steam can cause damage. Velvet fabric is made up of delicate fibers, so steam can cause water stains, which can be difficult to remove.
Even if the fabric is labelled as “steam safe,” steam can still damage it if used incorrectly. It can leave marks, flatten the nap or cause the color to run. Alternatives to steaming velvet curtains include using a steamer guard that can help protect the fabric, or hang the curtains in the bathroom and let the steam from a hot shower do the work.
Another option is to hang the curtains in the sun for a few hours to help remove wrinkles. If the area you plan to steam is small, you can use an iron on the lowest setting as long as you use a pressing cloth, such as a piece of muslin.
Are velvet curtains a good idea?
Velvet curtains can be a great idea depending on the look you’re going for. They can add a luxurious and expensive look to your space and come in a range of styles, colors and textures. Velvet curtains offer a good amount of sound absorption and are also good insulators, helping to keep the temperature of your space more consistent.
However, velvet is a delicate fabric, so curtains in a high traffic area or a home with kids or pets might not be the best choice. Additionally, caring for velvet curtains can be difficult, as you need to spot clean them, or have them professionally dry cleaned.
It’s best to take all of these factors into consideration before deciding if velvet curtains are the best choice for your space.
Is velvet easy to sew?
Yes, velvet is relatively easy to sew. It does have some specific considerations that one should take note of due to its nature. Because it is woven on a loom, velvet fabric has a pile you need to consider when sewing.
It is best to use a sharp, new needle when sewing velvet, and set the stitch length shorter than usual. It’s also important to test any techniques, such as pressing, on a scrap of fabric first. Make sure the fabric is warm and dry when sewing, as this will help it not to stretch out of shape.
When it comes to pins and clips, avoid using too many, as they can leave holes or impressions. When cutting velvet fabric, use sharp scissors and go slowly. Always cut velvet along the grain of the fabric and never against it.
Finally, when it comes to trimming finished seams, use scissors and not a razor blade, as this can ruin the fabric. Overall, velvet is not difficult to sew and can look really great if you take the right precautions.
Can you sew velvet on a sewing machine?
Yes, you can sew velvet on a sewing machine. It is important to take extra care when sewing velvet fabric because it is a delicate fabric that can slip, move, and have an uneven texture when sewn. Before starting, it is important to use a special velvet needle, a walking foot and reduce the speed of the machine when sewing velvet.
It is also a good idea to use a fabric stabilizer and baste the pieces together before sewing. When sewing, use long stitches, keep the fabric flat on the sewing machine, and use a light pressure when guiding the fabric through the machine.
Once the pieces are sewn together, take extra care when pressing the seams as too much heat or pressure can ruin the velvet’s texture. Taking the time to sew velvet correctly using the proper techniques can help ensure it looks and feels fabulous.
What stitch is for velvet?
The most common stitch used for velvet fabric is a plain backstitch, often known as a slipstitch. This stitch is secure and holds the fabric in place while still allows the velvet’s pile to move freely.
This stitch is hidden on the reverse side of the fabric, creating an invisible join. This stitch is also perfect for upholstery and other items that require secure, invisible stitching. When making velvet garments, care must also be taken to protect the fabric from snagging, as the velvet’s pile is easily damaged and it’s difficult to repair snags.
Handwashing velvet should always be done with detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics and dried carefully to ensure the velvet’s pile remains intact.