When choosing curtains, most people get lost in the variety of materials and style decisions regarding window design. And sometimes they undeservedly do not pay attention to such fabric as matting. Meanwhile, there are quite interesting options. However, matting curtains are still in demand due to their characteristics and designers who have shown the consumer that masterpiece curtains can be made from them.
Matting is a durable, coarse natural fabric with a checkerboard weave of threads. Despite its very modest appearance, it is quite popular and has found application in a variety of areas. Matting fabric is often used to make curtains, most often used for eco-design, but it also fits organically into other interior solutions.
What is a matting
Matting is an environmentally friendly material and is used not only for curtains, but also for furniture and other interior accessories. Visually, this fabric is a little similar to linen, but this is only at first glance, and besides, the technology for its production is different.
Modern matting is somewhat different from what it was before, and obviously for the better. It is even more dense and durable, therefore it is able to completely protect the room from the penetration of sunlight.
The method of weaving fibers was invented by our ancestors, and consists of alternately laying two threads on top of each other, which ultimately gives a checkerboard pattern. Today's technology for producing matting differs from what was originally invented; the fabric is impregnated with auxiliary substances, which gives it additional properties that it did not previously have.
Among them are strength, density and lightness.
Expert opinion
Mikhailova Maria Vasilievna
Furniture store manager. Knows everything about comfort and interior design
The modern range of this fabric is varied; it can be either plain or printed, on both sides, which is especially valuable for sewing curtains. Another innovation is the use of lining.
- The particularly valuable properties of matting include its low flammability, ability to retain heat well and not allow light to pass through.
- It also has high noise-insulating properties and strength, while the matting fabric is light and relatively soft, pleasant to the touch - just what you need for cutting curtains.
- The matting drapes beautifully, holds its shape perfectly, does not wrinkle, is quite easy to care for, and collects little dust.
- Since it is hypoallergenic, it can be used in rooms where allergy sufferers and children live.
Well, in the end, it just looks stylish, and has the ability to transform a room, not pretentiously, but elegantly, tastefully. Often used in conjunction with a lining that performs specific functions. This fabric is ideal for the bedroom. An additional advantage is its practicality and ease of maintenance.
Types of matting curtains
Curtains made of matting, depending on the personal preferences of the residents, can look modest, or they can be non-standard, and in this case the matting is also organic. Not only are the types and styles of matting curtains varied, they may differ in the way they are fixed to the cornice.
The choice of colors depends on taking into account the overall style used in the room. In addition to this condition, when purchasing matting curtains, their other characteristics are taken into account.
Such curtains can be used not only for decorating interior spaces; thanks to their properties, they are also excellent for unheated rooms, terraces, and verandas. However, in this case you need to choose a special type of matting, with enhanced impregnation, thanks to which the fabric will not absorb moisture, fade, and in general will last a long time without losing its original characteristics.
At the same time, textiles must fit harmoniously into the overall interior style.
Often matting is used for Roman, Japanese or roller blinds. When decorating a window with matting curtains, you can combine it with a lighter fabric, which will give a special visual effect. However, playing with contrast is not always acceptable, because matting is attractive precisely because of its visual “roughness”; this has its own charm.
Style solutions for linen curtains
When choosing a style solution, take into account the design style of the room. Curtains are an important part of the interior, so they should not stand out from the overall composition.
Ecostyle
To create products in eco-style, natural fabrics are used. The predominant colors (both in textiles and in the interior) are green and yellow.
Scandinavian
The Scandinavian style is dominated by motifs of the north, sea and mountains. The products are designed in cool colors: gray, light blue, soft brown. To create curtains, take grayish or bleached linen, which has a smooth texture. An alternative option is thick fabrics decorated with marine patterns, anchors and ropes. This solution will help create a Nordic atmosphere in the room.
Country Country
If a house or apartment is decorated in a country style, all items contain rustic motifs. The latter depend on the national color of the country.
Provence
This is the style of provincial French cities. In this case, the internal walls of the houses are decorated with plaster, and warm colors predominate in the interior. The rooms are complemented by herbariums, forged elements, ceramic and porcelain figurines. Curtains made of loose fabric painted in pastel colors fit into this composition.
Classic
Products made in a classic style remain popular regardless of fashion trends. The curtains are made of thick material, complemented with tulle and tack, and are distinguished by elegant folds.
Modern loft in minimalist style
This style is elegant and minimal in detail, but requires a lot of space to create. Loft features: panoramic windows, high ceilings with built-in lamps, pastel colors and restraint. The room should not be overloaded with decorations, and the main emphasis is on lighting. Loft-style curtains are made of thin textiles and painted in white, gray or beige.
What to consider when choosing matting curtains
When choosing curtains of this type, you should pay special attention to the method of fastening them and choose the most convenient one.
- The most acceptable in this sense are curtains with eyelets and hinges. Eyelets can be made of different materials, including metal, plastic, wood. It should be noted that for country or eco style, “natural” ones are more acceptable, and metal is more suitable for high-tech, ascetic interiors.
- This method of fastening is considered the simplest and at the same time convenient. Curtains with grommets or tape can be removed in almost one movement, as well as being attached back. They are quite popular when decorating kitchens and living rooms, especially if it is rustic, masculine, eco-friendly, minimalistic, or Japanese style.
- Curtains with ribbons provide finer drapery than those with eyelets. Of course, matting is applicable not only for curtains, but also for other decorative interior items, for example, pillows, bedspreads, tablecloths, as upholstery material for furniture and even for decorating walls (most often one).
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of the material include:
- practical material is ideal for sewing not only matting curtains for the kitchen, but also making other decorative items in the same style (decorative pillows, tablecloths, kitchen towels);
- after washing, the curtains can be immediately hung on the windows, since the material presented is characterized by being wrinkle-resistant and does not require ironing;
- excellent drapability - symmetrical round folds are easily formed on the falling fabric, which keep their shape well throughout the entire life of the product;
- curtains do not need to be washed often, and if a stain has formed on the product, it is enough to remove it with a soap solution;
- wide range of colors.
The disadvantages of the material are similar to furniture fabric. Such curtains on the windows always attract the attention of cats, who will use them as a scratching post.
Therefore, in a house where these pets live, designers recommend hanging shorter curtains. On our website there is a separate article “Furniture matting” - from it you can find out whether it is worth buying this material for upholstery.
Description of fabric
Blackout material is so strong and dense that it can provide 100% protection from the penetration of sunlight into the room. The unique technology of weaving fibers consists of connecting two threads by laying one on top of the other, resulting in a checkerboard pattern on the surface of the fabric.
Matting fabric has a textile base with the addition of acrylic foam and other auxiliary chemicals, which provide unique strength, density and at the same time lightness. The modern market presents a wide variety of textiles made from matting, these are plain and colored fabrics, with prints and double-sided images, lined curtains.
At the moment, blackout fabric is one of the most durable and high-quality materials for making thick window curtains, which looks very much like natural linen.
The unique properties of this matter are as follows:
- It has high fire resistance.
- Able to retain heat in the room.
- Does not allow sunlight to pass through and does not allow dust to penetrate.
- Has noise-insulating properties.
- Lightweight and soft to the touch, easy to cut and sew. The material is easy to drape, retains its shape well and is easy to care for.
- It is a completely hypoallergenic material.
- Very attractive, stylish look.
- For the textile base of this material, cotton, silk and linen are used.
- Ideal for curtains, since the first layer of fabric is able to reflect sunlight, and the second does not allow it to penetrate the room. An ideal solution for the bedroom and lounge.
Such textiles on windows are very practical, have a stylish look and are very easy to care for. In addition, today there is a huge selection of colors and unusual, non-standard designs of this fabric, which is ideal for making textiles for window decoration.
Color design
Using different shades, you can create a Nordic, rustic, cozy or mysterious atmosphere in your home.
Grey
Gray colors predominate in Scandinavian style. It is recommended to hang smoky curtains or curtains in spacious rooms with large windows facing the sunny side. If the window is curtained with dark gray fabric, it should be combined with lighter elements or white tulle.
Green
Green curtains look good in almost any room: light colors are suitable for bedrooms, rich colors for the living room.
Shades of olives and pistachios will fit into the interior of a study (if there is one in the house), because they help you concentrate and set you in the right mood.
Beige
Beige curtains are in demand on the market, because people often decorate their homes in warm pastel colors. Products of this shade can be combined with options designed in other colors: gray, yellow, brown, white, soft blue. Colors should not be too dark, bright or toxic: this will make the room look pretentious and sloppy.
White
Before making a choice in favor of white light curtains, you should take into account the practical side of the issue. Such curtains get dirty easily, so it is better not to hang them in a house where there are small children. Also, do not place them near the work area in the kitchen, because this will make them dirty even faster.
In other rooms, white curtains will look appropriate, making the room lighter and more spacious.
Blue
Blue-colored products can be hung in a room decorated in almost any style, but they will fit most organically into Scandinavian, loft and country. Such curtains will visually expand a small room and decorate small windows. It is advisable to choose curtains in a soft blue shade.
Red
Red curtains will fit into a room decorated in a Gothic or Oriental style. This is a non-standard and extravagant solution: not everyone will decide to take such a step.
Long classic curtains and curtains in a rich red color look most impressive.
Brown
Brown curtains look good in a country house, in a country house or in a gazebo. They can also be hung in a bedroom or other recreation room, since dark dense fabric hanging from the mount to the floor will soften the sunlight and create twilight in the room.
Blue
Deep blue curtains look no less impressive than bright red ones. In addition, they produce a psychological effect: they relax, reduce aggression, reduce anxiety and help concentrate.
In the room you can hang classic products or spectacular curtains with prints of the sea, space, night city or starry sky.
Yellow
Yellow walls and curtains bring a special coziness, help you relax and unwind. Pale shades fit into the loft style, brighter and richer characters for eco and country. Yellow curtains, decorated with a pattern or a cheerful print, can be hung both in the kitchen and in the children's room.
Turquoise
Turquoise is associated with the sea and sky. Curtains of this color create coziness and evoke positive emotions. Fabrics in subtle turquoise shades will fit into the Scandinavian style, and classic curtains with a floral print go well with tulle.
Care instructions
Caring for the matting is very simple; it is easily cleaned of dust and other contaminants. Curtains with tape or eyelets can be easily washed in a machine on a delicate cycle.
Before washing the fabrics, it is necessary to shake off any dust and remove decorative elements from them. After washing, they are dried in the open air. What is characteristic of this fabric is that it does not require ironing at all, and creases and folds do not appear on it after cleaning.
Other decorative items made from matting must be regularly cleaned of dust using a vacuum cleaner and wiped with a damp sponge soaked in a vinegar solution. This will refresh their appearance and keep things clean.
A little history
The cattail plant was used to make dense household fabric, hence the name. Then they learned to use bast or bast to create the material, but the weaving technique remained the same. Matting was used to make bags, packaging, furniture, primitive shoes and even fishing nets.
Expert opinion
Mikhailova Maria Vasilievna
Furniture store manager. Knows everything about comfort and interior design
By the middle of the twentieth century, this material began to be used to make clothing. Coco Chanel also contributed to the popularization of fabric - she managed to create beautiful blouses, dresses and skirts from rather rough material.
They kept their shape perfectly and practically did not wrinkle. Over time, the fashion for matting passed, and the fabric began to be used for sewing tablecloths, curtains and drapes.
Burlap for curtains
Cotton burlap is a natural fabric that is often used to make curtains in eco, Provence or country styles.
Fabric properties
The fabric is 100% cotton, its density is from 200 to 400 g/m². Width – from 95 to 110 cm.
Advantages
Burlap is dense, has a porous texture, and allows air and moisture to pass through. Contains jute fibers, making it wear-resistant and has a long service life.
Modern interior
Even the smallest details play a huge role in the design of any room. What can we say about curtains - they are not only a functional thing, but also a decorative element.
Everything should be harmoniously combined and complement each other. Modern matting can be purchased in almost any store; the assortment is quite large.
After people realized that they needed to surround themselves with natural products and materials, matting became even more popular.
Modern matting is often made from linen or cotton threads woven in pairs, so it produces a checkerboard pattern. At first glance, it seems that such a fabric is very easy to weave, because it looks quite rough and unattractive.
But when creating the material, double, sometimes triple paired weaving of threads is used, as well as complex fabric production technology. And only at the end of the process can you see a pattern on a fairly dense canvas that resembles a chessboard.
Fabric composition and features
The material may contain a variety of fibers: linen, cotton, wool or silk. Sometimes manufacturers add synthetic thread to make the fabric stronger and more elastic.
Matting is valued for many useful qualities:
- strength and wear resistance;
- high fire resistance;
- good density - this curtain fabric does not allow sunlight to pass through;
- sound insulation;
- simplicity and ease of care;
- original appearance that will complement almost any interior;
- durability - the material is more likely to get boring than to wear out;
- the curtains hold their shape well and practically do not wrinkle;
- The fabric is easy to work with and cut;
- the material does not cause allergies.
Unlike the old days, the fabric is made not by hand, but on machines, but the weaving has remained the same for many years.
Consumers value matting for its ease of care. It does not need frequent washing; it is enough to periodically vacuum the item made of this material. If you still need to scrub the stain, it can be easily done with a wet sponge and regular detergent. After washing, the fabric does not need to be ironed.
Matting curtains are available in stores in a wide range of colors. Therefore, curtains made from this material can be chosen for both the bedroom and the living room.
Linen curtains in the interior of different rooms: photos with examples
Adding curtains or other types of products to the window is one way to complement the interior and create soft lighting in the room.
Living room or hall
Classic options are suitable for decorating these rooms. Curtains can be combined with tulle - a light translucent fabric will soften the sunlight. Long curtains will visually increase the space.
Bedroom
Experts recommend choosing furniture and curtains in pastel colors. This composition has a calming effect and helps you fall asleep faster.
Children's room
The interior of the nursery is completely customized to the child: his gender, age, interests. Bright colors, cheerful motifs and decorations are important in a baby's bedroom. A teenager’s room is decorated taking into account the owner’s wishes, as it becomes the child’s little world.
To cover windows, you can choose either neutral curtains or products with an unusual print on the theme of space, animals, or sports.
Kitchen and dining room
The kitchen is first and foremost a work space. When selecting products, you should focus on their practicality. However, if the cooking area is combined with a guest area, you can hang curtains with tulle or two-color curtains with accessories: lambrequins, drawstrings and decorations.
Balcony and loggia
Many modern apartments have glazed loggias, which are mini-rooms. There you can put a work desk or arrange a corner for relaxation. For a balcony, roller blinds in a neutral color are best suited.
Wooden house or cottage
A wooden house or cottage is often decorated in country, eco or loft styles. The interior decoration should not be overloaded with details (furniture, statues, flowers), and the walls should not be overloaded with paintings and other decorations.
Terrace, veranda and gazebo
Outdoor curtains protect against insects, soften the effects of the sun's rays and retain heat during the evening or cooler seasons. In addition, they perform an aesthetic function: they decorate the structure, hide its shortcomings and emphasize its advantages.
If the resting place is glazed, decorative curtains made of thin textiles are suitable. For open spaces, you should choose curtains made of thick fabric.
Fastenings and types of curtains
When choosing curtains, you should carefully consider the fastening. Such a seemingly insignificant detail can improve or completely ruin the overall appearance.
There are several types of fastenings.
- Eyelets or loops. Curtains with such fastenings will perfectly complement the interior of a living room, bedroom or office. Depending on the style of the interior, you can choose hinges and eyelets made of wood, metal or plastic.
- Curtain tape. This fastening is very convenient, because it allows you to remove the curtain in almost one movement. Another benefit is achieving a finer drape.
Fastenings are also selected taking into account the density of the fabric.
Matting is very diverse in color, density and appearance. The most successful curtain models are:
- Roman curtain;
- classic curtain with eyelets or ribbon;
- thick Japanese-style shields;
- pleated curtains.
You need to consider where and why you buy a curtain. In a room that is too sunny and requires darkening, you can’t do without a matting.
The price of fabric for curtains depends on several indicators, so a buyer with any financial capabilities will be able to find something for himself. The matting looks good and lasts a long time even at a not very high price. If you doubt your sense of style, it is better to consult a specialist when choosing drapes and curtains.
Design and drawings
Products with flowers or birds help you relax and lift your spirits. In addition, curtains can be decorated with lace, patterns, butterflies and other decorative elements.
With lace
The elegant pattern makes the product light and airy. These curtains are made of thin fabric and look great in a bedroom decorated in pastel colors.
Geometry, stripe, check
Checkered or striped curtains are a suitable option for those who value non-standard solutions. Curtains with geometric shapes, checkered patterns and stripes of different widths are suitable for decorating country-style homes. Creative personalities will be pleased with products with multi-colored stripes.
With flowers
Floral print is a solution that helps to achieve harmony with different styles: eco, country, modern. Using this design, you can create a romantic atmosphere and special comfort in your home.
Two-color
Two-color curtains are another non-standard solution for decorating a room. These can be curtains decorated with stripes of different colors, or a set of 2 curtains in different shades. The composition can be supplemented with a lambrequin.
With fringe
Fringe is a braid from which threads, laces, soft fibers and other pendants hang. This decorative element looks good in combination with classic linen products in different colors.
