How To Add Blackout Lining To Existing Curtains

Adding blackout or thermal lining to an existing panel of curtains is a really smart upscaling idea, plus a gateway towards a plethora of benefits. As the foremost perk, you will enjoy perfect light control (complete blackout or reasonable room darkening), without having to replace the entire curtain setup. Additionally, there will be better comfort and constant insulation.
Linings also prove helpful in improving the ambiance of rooms, making them peaceful through soundproofing. Sounds like a genius thing to do? It sure is. And now that you know about this super cheap and amazing curtain improvement hack, let Fixit Dubai make the rest of the work easier and perfectly streamlined for you as well.
Enhancing Window Curtains With Blackout Linings | Your Guide To Dark And Comfy Rooms

In addition to light control benefits, the attachment of a lining also gives a significantly better look to all curtain panels, making them appear more well-structured, heavier and luxurious. All in all, this idea is the absolute best bet to go for, if you need a renewed window treatment, but don’t wish to break your bank for buying new blackout curtains in Dubai.
Now let’s see how you can pull this off with the least amount of trouble and expenses. As a matter of fact, there are up to 3 ways to add a blackout or thermal lining to curtain panels!
1- No-sew Addition (Fast And Convenient)

- As you can guess, this one is a quick and somewhat of a temporary solution, but still very effective in improving window coverings, especially when you don’t wanna sew.
- It can be incredibly helpful in rental or similar temporary settings and is very convenient to reverse as well, if you don’t seek permanent alterations. Washing it is easier too.
Here’ What You Will Need
- Blackout Liners or Fabric cut to size
- Curtain Hooks or Clip Rings
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
Steps Of Addition

- Measure and cut the blackout liner to size, keeping it a bit shorter than a curtain panel or of the same size.
- Lay out your blackout liner and locate its hooks. They are to be attached to your existing curtain panel.
- You can use those hooks or make use of additional curtain clip rings to attach the blackout liner to the back of your curtain panel.
- Hang your lined curtains and move them a few times to test their working, plus ensure a secure attachment of the lining and you will be good to go.
2- Iron-on Attachment (Sewing-free And Long-lasting)
- This method also does not involve any sewing but generates a more polished and sleek window curtain look, perfect if you are conscious about your room’s decor with customized curtains in Dubai.
- Most of the equipment is also the same, except for a tape adhesive that has to be ironed on for fusing with drapes.
Stuff You Need To Gather

- Blackout Liner or Fabric
- Fusible Hemming Tape
- Iron
- Fabric Clips or Pins
- Measuring Tape
- Scissors
Also read: How To Get Creases Out Of Blackout Curtains
Method For Attachment
- The first step will be the same; measure the liner and cut it precisely, keeping it shorter than curtain panels for an elegant look.
- Lay the curtain panel flat with their front side facing down, preferably on an ironing board or some other clean surface, and position the lining fabric behind it.
- Place the fusible hemming tape next to the edges of the liner and the curtain panel and press a hot iron over it to combine and secure the two.
- Proceed slowly and with caution to not damage the liner at any point. Also, do not exert excessive pressure as it can lead to uneven bonding of the liner and the curtain panel.
3- Sewing Inclusion (Pro-work, Highly Durable)

- This one is a rather extensive method as compared to the earlier two, but the effort is well worth the outcomes; you get sleek, stylish and pro-altered looking curtains.
- The attachment is permanent and greatly helpful in improving the coverage of curtains for enhanced privacy, excellent insulation and effectively reduced noise pollution.
Supplies That Are Required
- Blackout Linings (Their width should be the same as curtains, but the length should be 2 to 3 cm shorter)
- Needle or Sewing Machine
- Heavy-duty Thread
- Iron
- Measuring Tape
- Fabric Scissors
Steps Of Sewing
- Start by placing the liner behind the curtain panel and their wrong sides should face each other.
- Align the top edges of the two and use fabric clips or pins to keep the fabrics in place and start sewing along the top hem.
- You can also use an iron to press the seams neat before sewing and can also sew the sides for a better look and neater finish.
- Once your curtains are fully lined, you can install them back, adjust the fabric as required and enjoy excellent coverage, plus the best light control. If you want to get ride of DIY hussle, you can hire a expert curtain installation team.
Helpful Ideas To Make Curtain Lining Better And More Useful

- In case you have pleated curtains or those with grommets, sew the top edge only so the lining hangs freely behind curtain panels, ensuring smooth movement for motorized curtains Dubai setups.
- To prevent sagging of the lining (for extra wide curtain panels), it is recommended to add a couple of vertical anchoring stitches next to the sides.
- Make use of a fabric marker or chalk to mark all measurements and not have any errors in the process. Use a step stool for easily & precisely measuring drapes that are hanging.
- You may also consider installing another curtain rod for hanging blackout liners if you don’t want to attach them to curtains. This will lead to more usage flexibility.
- Consider ironing your lined curtains before hanging them back. Doing so will flatten any and every seam and there will be no wrinkles either; a polished and pristine appearance.
Also read: 8 Best Blackout Curtains to Help You Sleep Easily
To Conclude
The addition of a lining can bring about immense improvement in not just the look and performance of window curtains but also the atmosphere of the room. Though seemingly straightforward, the method does involve a couple of factors and certain things that must be taken care of. That’s why we have provided you with an all-inclusive and dependable guide which will make this smart curtain upgrade both convenient and advantageous for you. And you will be able to benefit maximally from your existing window curtains, without the need for any professional (and costly) enhancements or alterations! Good Luck!
