Can You Use Curtain Fabric for Dressmaking?
If you’ve ever spotted a curtain fabric you love and thought, “I’d wear that,” you’re not alone. And the good news is, you can. Curtain fabric can absolutely be used for dressmaking, as long as you choose the right type for your project.
I recently made a cropped jumpsuit using the Rachel Jumpsuit and Trousers pattern by Athina Kakou (featured as a freebie in Simply Sewing magazine), and instead of using a typical dressmaking fabric, I went with something a little different: the Wild Wood curtain fabric in Multi from Terry’s Fabrics. The result? A colourful, structured jumpsuit that any big kid at heart would love.
Curtain fabric for clothing?
Curtain fabric often gets overlooked for dressmaking, but for the right garment, it’s a great choice. Many are made from cotton or linen blends, offering a weightier drape that’s perfect for structured designs.
The Wild Wood fabric is a 100% cotton curtain fabric with a lovely canvas feel. It’s breathable, holds its shape well, and the print is adorable. With cute hedgehogs, deer, owls and rabbits in a Scandi style. The perfect choice for any adult who has looked at kids clothes and wondered ‘why don’t they make those fun designs in adult sizes.
Tips for sewing
Choose the right fabric
Stick to natural fibres like cotton and linen. These are breathable, easy to work with, and behave similarly to heavier weight cottons or chambray. Avoid curtain fabrics that are backed with blackout or thermal layers, or anything too stiff or shiny as this indicates it has a coating on it.
Pre-wash your fabric
Even curtain fabric should be washed before cutting. This helps remove any surface treatments and allows for shrinkage. I washed mine on a cool cycle and air dried it and then ironed it flat just before it was fully dry.
Use a suitable needle and thread
Curtain fabric can be thicker than standard dressmaking cotton, so switch to a size 90/14 needle or a denim needle. I used polyester thread for added strength.
Consider the print scale
Many curtain fabrics feature large-scale prints which could be tricky to work with. This print was smaller scale and I tried to make sure the elements were balanced across the pattern pieces before I cut out.
Making the cropped jumpsuit
The cropped jumpsuit from Athina Kakou’s Rachel pattern worked perfectly with this fabric. The slightly heavier weight gave the garment crisp pleats and darts. Giving the trousers structure and a fun silhouette.
Fabrics to avoid for dressmaking
While curtain fabric can be a great option, not all of them are suitable. Here’s what to avoid:
- Blackout or thermal curtain linings – These are often rubber-backed and not breathable
- Velvets with thick pile or backing – Tricky to sew and often too heavy for clothing
- Very stiff or interlined curtain fabrics – Better suited to upholstery than apparel
Look for medium-weight cottons or linens without backing or added coatings for the best results.
So, can you use curtain fabric for dressmaking? Yes, and it can turn a simple pattern into a standout piece.
If you want to try it for yourself, you can find the Wild Wood Curtain Fabric in Multi at Terry’s Fabrics. It’s a great way to sew something a little different and make the most of beautiful prints usually reserved for interiors.
