Interlining is a soft, fleecy type fabric which is sewn between the main fabric and the lining of curtains, blinds, drapes and window treatments. Interlining is available in different fabrics and textures, some of which are natural and some of which are man-made. Below is a discussion of the different types of interlinings available and the pros and cons of using them.
Bump:
Bump interlining is a heavy, loosely woven fabric which is brushed to give a lofty feel. It is available as a 100% natural cotton fabric or a blended fabric of natural cotton and a man-made fibre, usually viscose . It is available as a pre-shrunk fabric which reduces the shrinkage after it is made-up as a window treatment. It also comes as a bleached option which is a lighter colour option. A further consideration is the density of the bump fabrics. Manufacturers assign gsm numbers (grams per square metre) to the bump. These tell the user the density of the bump. Finally, bump is available in widths of 137cm / 54 inches.
Examples of available bump are:
Natural pre-shrunk 72% Cotton 28% Other Fibres 410gsm
100% Cotton Natural Bump 400gsm
100% Cotton Bleached Bump 400gsm
75% Cotton 25% Viscose Super Bump 285gsm
Superior 75% Cotton 25% Viscose 280gsm
100% Cotton High Quality Heavyweight Bump 410gsm
Domette:
Domette is a twill weave brushed fabric which is a lighter weight alternative interlining to bump. As with bump, manufacturers assign gsm numbers to the domette. The higher gsm numbers are a medium weight interlining which are suitable for curtains, drapes or blinds while the lower gsm numbers are a light-weight interlinings suitable for top treatments such as valences and swags and tails. Domette is also available in widths of 137cm / 54 inches.
Examples of domette are:
160gsm Natural pre-shrunk 100% Cotton
260gsm Natural pre-shrunk 100% Cotton
200gsm Natural 100% Cotton
200gsm Natural Bleached 100% Cotton
Sarille:
Sarille is an economical lightweight synthetic interlining that will not shrink. It is usually made of 70% Polyamide / Polyester and 30% Viscose which is heat-set during manufacture. As with the other interlinings it is available in widths of 137cm / 54 inches.
Examples of Sarille:
160gsm Sarille White
180gsm Sarille White
220gsm Sarille White
The Benefits of using interlinings for window treatments are numerous. Firstly, it improves the drape and hang of the curtains which gives a luxurious look and feel to the window treatment.
Secondly, it protects the main fabric from harmful sunlight.
It also provides insulation which reduces heat loss through the window thus saving energy and helps to keep the room warmer.
Additionally, interlining helps with noise suppression.
The Disadvantages of using interlinings for window treatments should also be considered. Firstly, the interlinings can add considerable extra weight to the curtains. Bump is heavier than a light domette but which ever interlining is used you need to ensure that the hanging rail is sturdy enough for the weight of the curtains and that the wall fixings are adequate.
Secondly, not all interlinings are suitable for all climates. If the curtains or window treatments are used in a humid or damp environment I wouldn’t recommend using bump as the natural fibres will absorb and hold the moisture from the air which may affect the main fabric.
And there is the question of the extra cost associated with using interlinings - both the purchase cost and the make-up cost.
If the window treatments need to be laundered the interlining should be separated. I do not recommend either washing or dry-cleaning for made-up interlined curtains.
Interlining is prone to shrinkage and I recommend using pre-shrunk interlinings which limit the shrinkage to a maximum of 4% compared with 10% shirinkage for non pre-shrunk interlinings.
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