Sunlight during the day or car lights at night can disturb your sleep and affect your work. You can buy curtains that block out light or add blackout lining to your existing ones. I recommend the second option because it’s cheaper.
If you pick the second way, you must know how to add blackout lining to existing curtains. Don’t worry if you don’t know; we’ll show you the process in easy steps. You can finish it in less than half an hour and don’t need any special skills. Let’s get started!
List Of Materials Required
You must gather materials and tools before adding blackout lining to existing curtains. Here are some of the things you will need following our guide.
- Blackout Lining: Choose a blackout lining that suits your curtain fabric and provides the desired level of darkness.
- Measuring Tape: Essential for accurate measurements to ensure a proper fit.
- Scissors: High-quality scissors for cutting the blackout lining precisely.
- Pins or Clips: These will help secure the blackout lining during attachment.
- Sewing Machine/Needle and Thread: You’ll need a sewing machine or needle and thread for attachment, depending on your preference.
- Iron-on Adhesive (if applicable): If you choose an iron-on method, ensure you have the necessary adhesive.
- Clear Workspace: Ensure you have a clear and spacious area to work on, protecting your floor and furniture.
Step 1: Choosing The Right Blackout Lining
One of the main things you will need is blackout lining, but choosing the right one isn’t that easy. Here are some factors we want you to consider when looking for one.
- Material Matters: Opt for blackout lining made of dense materials like polyester or foam for better light-blocking and insulation.
- Opacity Level: Consider the opacity level based on your preference. Some blackout linings allow a bit of light to filter through, while others offer complete darkness.
- Attachment Method: Check the compatibility of the blackout lining with your chosen attachment method, whether it’s sewing, using clips, or iron-on.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Explore different brands and options to find a blackout lining that fits your budget without compromising quality.
- Easy to Clean: Choose a blackout lining that’s easy to clean and maintain, giving you long-term durability.
Step 2: Preparing The Workspace
Step 2.1: Clearing The Area For Work
Before adding blackout lining to existing curtains, getting your workspace ready is important. Here’s how:
- Remove Clutter: Clear the space around your curtains. Move any furniture or objects that might get in the way.
- Create Room: Make sure you have enough room to move around comfortably. The more space, the easier the process.
- Good Lighting: Ensure the area is well-lit. Good lighting will help you see what you’re doing and avoid mistakes.
Step 2.2: Protecting The Floor And Furniture
Now that your workspace is clear let’s make sure your floor and furniture stay safe during the blackout lining project:
- Cover The Floor: Lay down a protective covering on the floor. This can be an old sheet, a tarp, or even newspapers. It will catch any stray pins or fabric scraps.
- Move Furniture Aside: If possible, move any furniture near the curtains. This prevents accidental bumps or spills during the process.
- Secure Valuables: If you have valuable items nearby, consider covering them or moving them to a safer spot. This precaution ensures nothing gets damaged during your DIY project.
By preparing your workspace in these simple steps, you’ll create a safe and organized environment to add blackout lining to existing curtains.
Step 3: Measuring And Cutting
Getting the right measurements is key when adding blackout lining to existing curtains. Follow these two steps:
- Measure Your Curtain: Use a measuring tape to measure the length and width of existing curtains. Measure from the top to the bottom and from side to side.
- Add Extra for Overlap: Add a few extra inches to your measurements to ensure the blackout lining covers the entire curtain. This helps prevent any gaps when the lining is attached.
These steps are quite vital. So much so that even the best curtain providers take great care when doing it.
Now that you have your measurements let’s move on to cutting the blackout lining:
- Mark Your Measurements: Use a pencil or fabric marker to mark the measurements on the blackout lining. Double-check the marks to avoid mistakes.
- Use Sharp Scissors: Make sure your scissors are sharpened. This makes cutting easier and gives you cleaner edges.
- Cut Carefully: Follow the marked lines and cut along them. Take your time to ensure a straight and even cut.
Following these basic steps for measuring and cutting sets the foundation for a successful blackout lining project for your curtains.
Step 4: Attaching The Blackout Lining
We are now ready to add blackout lining to existing curtains. We will be showing three different methods along with one step-by-step guide.
Step 4.1: Choosing The Right Method
Step 4.1.1: Sewing
To add blackout lining to your curtain, gather materials like a needle, thread, and optionally, a sewing machine. Lay the blackout lining on the curtain, ensuring proper alignment, and sew along the edges. If using a machine, choose an appropriate stitch. Pay close attention to corners for a professional finish. This enhances light-blocking for improved privacy and light control.
Take your time during sewing to ensure a secure and even attachment. Once all edges are sewn, inspect your work for a neat outcome. Whether using a needle or machine, precision is key for optimal results in enhancing your curtain’s functionality.
Step 4.1.2: Iron-On
To apply blackout lining to your curtain, you’ll need an iron and iron-on adhesive. Begin by cutting the blackout lining to the desired size. Then, place the adhesive onto the lining. Finally, iron the lining onto the curtain, ensuring a secure attachment. This simple process enhances your curtain’s light-blocking properties, providing improved privacy and light control.
Step 4.1.3: Clips
To put blackout lining on your curtain using clips, you just need the clips. Start by using the clips to fasten the blackout lining onto the curtain. Make sure to spread the clips out evenly, so the lining stays securely attached all over the curtain. This simple way makes your curtain better at blocking light, giving you more privacy and control over how much light comes in.
Step 4.2: Step-By-Step Guide For Attachment
Firstly, position the blackout lining by laying it flat on the curtain, aligning the edges carefully. If you’re using the sewing method, secure the corners by pinning them. For iron-on or clip methods, make sure the corners are well-aligned to ensure a proper fit.
Next, proceed to attach the lining along the edges, following the chosen method—whether it be sewing, ironing, or using clips. Take your time to ensure a secure attachment.
Check for evenness as you go along, ensuring the lining is smoothly and evenly attached without any wrinkles or folds. This step is crucial for a polished and professional appearance.
Lastly, test the security of the attachment by giving the curtain a gentle tug. This helps ensure that the blackout lining is securely in place, providing enhanced light-blocking capabilities for improved privacy and light control.
By choosing the right method and following these basic steps, you’ll successfully attach blackout lining to your curtains, enhancing their appearance and functionality.
Step 5: Ensuring Proper Fit
When learning how to add blackout lining to existing curtains, you must ensure that everything fits.
Once you’ve added blackout lining to your curtains, ensuring everything fits perfectly is essential. Follow these simple steps:
- Step Back: Take a few steps back and look at the curtains from a distance. This helps you see the entire picture.
- Check for Gaps: Examine the edges of the blackout lining and the curtain. Ensure there are no gaps where light could seep through.
- Look for Overlaps: Similarly, check for any overlaps. Ensure the blackout lining doesn’t extend beyond the curtain edges, creating unnecessary bulk.
If you spot any issues, don’t worry. Here’s how you can easily make adjustments:
- Trim Excess Material: If there are overlaps, use scissors to carefully trim the excess blackout lining.
- Reattach: If gaps are present, reattach the lining, ensuring it sits flush with the curtain edges.
- Secure Again: If you’ve made adjustments, secure the lining again using your chosen method (sewing, iron-on, or clips).
Further Reading:
How to Choose Curtains That Will Help Soundproof Your Home
7 Reasons Why Blackout Curtains Should Be Your Home Essential
Conclusion
One of the best ways to make your home quieter and more comfortable is by learning how to add blackout lining to existing curtains. It’s a simple project that you can do with some simple materials and tools.
By doing so, you can enjoy benefits ranging from improved sleep quality to energy savings, making Dubai curtains a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. Follow the steps we outlined in our article, and transform your Dubai curtains into efficient light blockers with a personalized touch
FAQ’s
Q. What materials are best for blackout lining?
Choose blackout lining made of dense and opaque materials such as polyester or foam to achieve optimal light-blocking and insulation.
Q. Can blackout lining be added to any curtain?
While most curtains can accommodate blackout lining, ensuring that the curtain fabric is compatible with the attachment method you choose is essential.
Q. How does blackout lining affect energy efficiency?
Blackout lining enhances energy efficiency by preventing heat loss in winter and minimizing heat gain in summer, resulting in potential savings on heating and cooling bills.
Q. Are blackout curtains suitable for all rooms?
Yes, blackout curtains are versatile and suitable for all rooms, providing light control and privacy in bedrooms, living rooms, and even home offices.
Q. Can I remove the blackout lining once it’s attached?
While removing blackout lining is possible, the process may vary based on the attachment method. Remember that some methods may leave residue or damage the curtain fabric.
