Changing normal curtains to blackout curtains can be one of the best ways to block out light, noise, and even control heat in your home. This type of work is easy and inexpensive to do yourself, giving you more ways to improve curtains without needing to get new curtains. Unfortunately, most normal curtains cannot block out light completely, in this article, we will explain how to effectively blackout your normal curtains.
Why change normal curtains to blackout?
Blackout curtains offer several benefits:
- Improve sleep quality: They do not allow light to pass through them during the day and thus can be best used in the bedroom area.
- Energy efficiency: Blackout curtains also create an environment of thermal comfort as they prevent the passage of heat.
- Noise Reduction: They reduce interference from the external environment, therefore making closed environments quieter.
- Enhanced Privacy: Heavy black curtains bring privacy to your home.
Okay, let’s move on to the steps that will convert your normal curtains into blackout curtains.
Materials you will need:
- Blackout Lining Fabric: Available at fabric stores or on the internet. Choose one that matches the size of your curtains perfectly.
- Fabric glue or iron-on adhesive: These members enable you to quickly secure the blackout lining to your curtains without sewing.
- Measuring Tape: The dimensions of the curtain and the blackout lining are then measured.
- Pin or Clip: To make sure the blackout lining is actually set before curing.
- Iron (optional): Suitable for activating iron-on adhesive tape.
Ways to make normal curtains black
1.Common techniques when installing blackout lining include using fabric glue or adhesive tape.
It is actually a technique to convert normal curtains directly into blackout curtains without stitching.
Step:
- Measure your curtains: Unfold your old curtains and use a measuring tape to find their exact measurements.
- Cut out the blackout lining: First, measure the curtains and then lay out the blackout lining fabric and trim it so it is slightly shorter than the curtains, about an inch on all sides.
- Attach lining with fabric glue: Spread your curtains and allow the back of the curtains to be in contact with a flat surface. Use fabric glue to attach the blackout lining to the seams and then adhere this lining to the back of the curtain. Let it dry as per the quantity written on the pack.
- Secure with clips or pins: Add curtain clips or pins to hold the blackout lining at the top of the curtain to add more support.
2. Sew a blackout lining to the curtains
This method can be used if you are skilled at sewing and want to reach for a more permanent solution.
Step:
- Cut and pin the lining: Cut the blackout fabric to size according to measurements. Attach the lining to the back of your curtains, making sure you pin it properly.
- Sew the edges: Sew the blackout curtains lining to the curtain with a sewing machine at the top and side seams to seal it tightly but leave the bottom raw edge open.
Blackout curtains
3. Use Blackout Curtain Panels
Another way is to install one or more panels of blackout curtains over your existing curtains. What makes these panels unique is that they can hang behind your existing curtains and provide you with a blackout feature without changing the fabric.
Step:
- Install a double curtain rod: Install a double curtain rod beyond the existing curtain so that there is some space left for the panel and blackout panel.
- Hang Blackout Panel: Install blackout curtain panels behind your regular curtains. This option enables the user to use the panels to filter light to a specific level or offer complete blackout where necessary.cu
Additional Tips for Blackout Efficiency
- Choose dark colors: Some dark colored materials can be used for curtains, which may be less effective than black curtains when it comes to blocking light.
- Layering Curtains: Curtains can be stacked to provide better insulation and increase complete blackout.
- Window Seal: Windows should be closed carefully, keeping light away from the edges of the curtains.
It also makes sense to change your normal curtains to blackout curtains as an effective way to increase the comfort of your home without purchasing new curtains. With fabric glue, sewing, or simply blackout panels, you can always transform your space in terms of lighting as well as added insulation and privacy.
FAQs:
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What is a blackout curtain?
Blackout curtains also known as dark curtains are intended to eliminate light from the room and even reduce the infiltration of UV light. They are also good for soundproofing or sound insulation.
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Is it possible to darken my simple curtains without stitching?
Yes, one can use fabric glue, or even iron-on adhesive tape which is used to stick blackout lining on existing curtains without sewing.
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Which store will sell me blackout lining fabric?
Blackout lining fabric can be purchased from most fabric stores, local shops, and online stores. It is possible to achieve specifications in thickness and opacity characteristics as per requirement.
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Does this blackout lining spoil the beauty of my curtains?
Blackout lining is usually installed behind the curtain, leaving no change in appearance. He highlighted that, however, this increases the thickness and can change the way the curtains hang on a small scale.
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Can I cut the blackout lining later?
If you used fabric glue or adhesive tape, sometimes it will be hard to remove the lining without some trace of glue. Curtain clips or pins are another method, although it is a much less permanent method.
