Fabrics manufactured from natural, undyed fibres may suffer from after bleaching, causing lightening or deepening in colour when exposed to natural light. As this is a natural phenomenon, allowance must be made for this unpreventable colour change reaction. Some yarns, such as silk, are susceptible to indirect UV rays and every precaution should be taken to protect the fabric by the use of a bumf or interlining as well as conventional lining. Even then, colour degradation may still occur over time.
A superior quality lining is always recommended for drapery applications. Depending on the situation, there are many different linings available such as coated linings for added insulation and protection, and three pass blackout linings where light control is a priority, such as in children’s bedrooms.
Curtains should be hung at least 10cm from the glass to allow air to circulate. This helps to prevent mildew and reduces heat build-up that will also adversely affect fabrics. Regular cleaning of windows is also beneficial as this removes mildew spores, which can accumulate and transfer onto curtains.
Depending on fibre content, there will always be some movement in curtain length (the longer the curtain, the greater the variation) due to temperature change and the absorption and release of atmospheric moisture from the yarn of the fabric. This is normal for heavy yarns such as cotton.
To maintain and preserve the lifespan of your furnishings, regular dusting and vacuuming should be undertaken, but frequent laundering is seldom required.
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This article has been taken from Woven, a 300-page comprehensive textile digest. Woven shares what we have learnt over the past 100 years, with the aim of ensuring the soft furnishing industry continues to thrive with expertise.
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