Roller shades are gaining popularity in home design and commercial businesses. They are not only a window treatment, but can boost your interior design and aesthetics. When a homeowner is considering a fabric for their roller shades, the options can feel overwhelming. Each fabric type has pros and cons, making them useful for different scenarios. This blog will share some common types as well as considerations to keep in mind when choosing window treatments.
Common Fabric Types For Roller Shades
When making a decision about roller shade fabric, thinking about light, energy-efficiency, and aesthetics is all-important. However, understanding the common fabric types can help you choose an option that may check all the boxes on your list. While there are hundreds of fabrics to choose from, here are some of the common subcategories that work best for roller shades.
Blackout
For bedrooms, home offices, hospitality industries, or rooms with large screens, blackout fabric is the obvious choice. Blackout curtains help to block out light that may cause glare or keep you up after a long flight. Roller shades with blackout fabric can allow you to enjoy complete darkness when needed, but still be opened to let in natural light at the appropriate times.
Sheer
These fabrics will be more decorative than blackout shades because they are very thin or are transparent with texture. When choosing roller shades, sheer options will let in the most amount of light and are very attractive to the eye. Sheer shades will work well in guestrooms, living rooms, or in combination with blackout curtains. Sheer roller shades let light permeate through, but will keep enough out in order to keep the room cool on hotter days.
Basketweave
Patterns of interwoven threads make up basketweave fabrics, which let in different amounts of light, depending on the density of the woven fibers. The manufacturer will choose a looser design if they want to allow more natural light, while a dense weave will block out more light. If you are considering these options, it is best to test different samples in your space to see what density is best for you. These may also need to be combined with additional window treatments for added privacy and light blocking.
Consider Your Home Style And Aesthetic
No matter what window treatment you choose, the design and fabric should complement your interior design style and existing home decor. While the overall function of a roller shade should be the most important factor, aesthetics also matter. Homeowners should select a color that fits their color scheme or matches another element in the room. Neutrals are always a great option when it comes to window treatments.
Many home styles, like farmhouse, mid-century, and modern, have textures that work best for the design. Modern designs typically feature less texture than a traditional home, for example. Consider the style of your home when choosing roller shade fabric to ensure they don’t stand out for the wrong reasons.
Preferred Fabric For Different Rooms
Every room, business, and entertainment space will have unique needs and functions. While fabric choices are completely up to the homeowner, there are recommended design “rules” that have been shown to create a cohesive look. Below are some of the recommended fabrics for common rooms.
Living Rooms
Light and flowing fabrics are typically recommended for curtains or drapes in a living space. This helps to let in the most natural light possible while making the space feel inviting. Sheer or semi-transparent window treatments will provide some privacy and light filtration, so homeowners or customers will not feel exposed.
Bedrooms
When it comes to sleeping, a dark room is often preferred, especially for children or those with sensitivity to light. Many people choose to combine multiple window treatments in a bedroom to allow for natural light during the day with blackout curtains for the evening.
Kitchen
Roller shades are popular for kitchens and dining areas because they are easy to use. Having light-filtering fabric for harsh times of the day can be helpful for visibility. Sheer fabrics, woven fabrics, or light options will work well in most kitchen designs.
Roller Shades From Lloyd’s Blinds
Lloyd’s Blinds offers a variety of window treatment options for homes and commercial settings. When it comes to decorative and functional coverings, we can find ones that match your aesthetic. Whether you are looking for traditional curtains, roller shades, or shutters, we will provide the best choice for you. When your rooms or exterior need sprucing, reach out to our team to help design the space of your dreams.
