Linen Curtains

Linen is a fabric that has been used for thousands of years and dates back to Egyptian times. Linen curtains are used in contemporary curtains because not only are the beautiful but the linen fabric is very hardy when cleaned appropriately. In fact, antiquarians and archeologists still find linen shrouds completely intact and undamaged after being used for thousands of years in burial grounds in the ancient world. Linen was a highly valuable material back then and it is considered one of the most pliable and attractive natural fiber fabrics in use today.

What are Linen Curtains

Linen curtains are constructed from material that is made from the flax plant. Flax plants have very long fibers in them that can be spun into thread. Depending on the thickness of the flax thread, linen fabric can be made into almost any durable and flexible fabric. The thicker the yarn, the more durable the fabric. The thinner the yarn, the less durable and more delicate the fabric. Linen does not fade easily but it is also hard to dye.

Linen curtains are made from linen that is of medium thickness and durability. Although linen curtains are usually more expensive than other curtains, they also last longer. Linen curtains are very elegant and classy and add tremendously to the look and appeal of window treatments using this fabric.

Linen curtains are more frequently lined, but you can also find them in unlined versions too. Unlined linen curtains are most often used as sheer curtains and allow sunlight to gently filter through them.

Design Elements of Linen Curtains

Because the fabric of linen curtains is difficult to dye, most often you will find them in the natural color of linen, which is a soft buff white or cream color. You may also find linen in a light wheat color.

Although more difficult to find, you can also find dyed versions of linen curtains in solid colors that show off the weave of this natural fiber material. Even rarer are linen curtains with printed patterns on them. Embroidered linen curtains have also become increasingly popular in recent years.

Heavier linen curtains can add a masculine element to a room, particularly if they are combined with grommets along the top edge of the curtain.

Linen curtains can be used in rooms with clean contemporary modern lines or in rooms that have a casual style to the room decor. Many people find that adding linen curtains to their window treatments adds a cool element of style to the room, making it feel more breezy and open.

Linen Curtain Care

Linen curtains should be dry cleaned instead of washed in the home washer and dryer. This is because washing them at home may make them shrink and destroy the shape of the curtains. It is a good idea to take linen curtains down approximately every three months and clean them with a good vacuuming. Do not treat stains in linen curtains yourself. Instead, take them to a professional cleaner where the stain can be treated correctly and the linen material protected.