How to Select Fabric for Blackout Curtains 

I. Introduction 

Blackout curtains stand out as one of the most effective tools for creating a living environment that feels comfortable and private while also being energy efficient. Blackout curtains offer an effective solution whether your goal is improved sleep quality or TV glare reduction, room insulation or a home theater ambiance. But here’s the catch: The performance of blackout curtains depends on their fabric because different materials produce varying levels of effectiveness.

All blackout curtains appear identical at first sight. The material construction along with weave pattern, thickness, color and specialized lining determine the actual functionality of blackout curtains. Fabric selection extends past visual appeal to encompass essential elements such as functionality, comfort level, durability, and overall long-term satisfaction.

Read this article to fully grasp the method for picking the best fabric suited for blackout curtains. The key characteristics that define blackout curtains will be explored along with the essential fabric properties to look for while debunking homeowner misconceptions. This guide will provide you with the knowledge to choose the ideal blackout curtain fabric for your nursery, bedroom, or home theater by its conclusion.

II. What Makes a Curtain “Blackout”? 

Difference Between Blackout and Room-Darkening 

Before diving into fabric selection, it’s important to clear up one of the biggest misunderstandings: Blackout curtains block almost all light whereas room-darkening curtains only minimize the light entering the room.

Room-darkening curtains minimize incoming light significantly but fail to block it completely. These curtains create a dimmer environment by reducing glare but permit residual ambient light to pass through the fabric’s edges and fabric openings.

Blackout curtains function to block between 95% and 100% of sunlight before it enters an interior space. People working night shifts who require daytime sleep along with parents of young children and home theater fans benefit from blackout curtains and so do individuals who desire complete darkness in their rooms. True blackout curtains create a light-blocking barrier through the combination of tightly woven or layered fabrics and a special lining or coating.

Also Read : Best Curtain Fabrics for Privacy

Role of Fabric vs. Lining in Achieving Blackout Effect 

People commonly believe that only the outer material affects a curtain’s ability to stop light from passing through. True blackout performance comes from both the curtain fabric and its attached lining working together.

Blackout curtains utilize triple-weave technology by combining three fabric layers together which features a middle layer of black yarn or foam to block light and eliminates the need for an extra lining.

Standard fabrics such as cotton, linen, or polyester are used in some blackout curtains which are paired with a foam-backed or thermally treated lining to prevent light from passing through. The lining can either be sewn or bonded to the back of the decorative fabric to achieve complete light blockage.

The fabric selection matters greatly but linings and treatments stand as an equal necessity to produce curtains that genuinely fulfill the blackout standard.

Common Misconceptions (e.g., Thicker = Blackout) 

The widespread misconception exists that fabric thickness directly equates to superior blackout performance. Heavier fabrics block more light than lighter ones but thickness alone does not ensure effective blackout performance.

For example: 

Velvet curtains that lack lining might let light penetrate because of gaps in the fabric’s weave or improper installation.

When a lightweight curtain features blackout lining or triple-weave construction it achieves near-complete darkness.

Many people mistakenly believe that curtains with dark colors function as blackout curtains without additional features. Although darker colors have the ability to absorb light and lessen brightness they fail to function as blackout curtains without appropriate construction or lining.

Understanding these nuances is key. Proper evaluation of fabric characteristics requires a holistic approach instead of relying solely on weight and color and this will be the focus of our next discussion.

III. Key Fabric Characteristics to Consider 

The selection process for blackout curtain fabric should include an assessment of its appearance and texture as well as its functional performance. These fundamental traits determine how well blackout curtains block light and their visual appeal.

1. Opacity and Weave Density 

The curtain’s ability to block or absorb light defines its opacity which depends mostly on the tightness of its woven threads. When threads in a fabric are tightly woven together as part of a dense weave, it results in reduced gaps which minimizes light penetration.

Tightly woven fabrics such as polyester, velvet, and suede possess naturally higher opacity levels than materials like cotton or sheer linen which are loosely woven. The weave density plays a critical role in blackout curtain manufacturing since it impacts light blocking more than the fabric’s thickness.

Triple-weave fabrics are the preferred choice as they contain a multilayer structure.

A decorative front layer 

A black light-blocking core 

A backing layer for durability 

The design combines functional performance with aesthetic appeal while removing the necessity of additional lining.

When choosing natural fabrics like cotton or linen that offer breathability and visual appeal but possess a looser weave structure you must use an additional blackout lining to achieve complete opacity.

2. Weight and Thickness 

The fabric’s weight and thickness significantly affect its blackout performance alongside other contributing factors. Heavyweight fabrics offer improved insulation properties along with superior sound absorption and light-blocking abilities.

Examples include: 

• Velvet: Velvet provides superior blackout performance while delivering a rich aesthetic touch to any interior space.

• Twill and Duck Canvas: Twill and Duck Canvas represent durable and thick cotton-based fabrics that perform exceptionally well when layered or lined for blackout curtains.

• Thermal-backed fabrics: These synthetic materials consist of foam or acrylic coatings which both block light and provide insulation for rooms.

However, heavier isn’t always better. There are trade-offs: 

Strong curtain rods and hardware are essential for supporting the weight of heavy fabrics.

These fabrics create a structured appearance because they do not hang as smoothly as lighter textiles.

Maintenance becomes more difficult when fabrics cannot be cleaned in a washing machine.

Lighter-weight polyester fabrics maintain strong blackout performance when produced with triple-weave manufacturing techniques. They offer a cost-effective solution that requires minimal upkeep while fitting well into small windows or informal areas.

3. Color and Light Filtration 

A common misconception among buyers is that dark fabrics block more light while light-colored fabrics allow more light through. The idea holds some truth when seen from the perspective of reflection yet fails to deliver the complete explanation.

Navy, charcoal and black fabrics absorb more light compared to lighter colored materials. These materials diminish brightness levels and provide a slight improvement to blackout capabilities.

Light-colored fabrics such as ivory, beige, or pale gray might produce a slight glow through their surface which becomes non-permissive to light when combined with suitable blackout lining or inner core.

The main distinction between fabrics comes down to their construction or lining rather than their color.

What does this mean for interior design? 

Performance does not require a compromise between your color palette and style.

You can achieve total darkness while maintaining airy light tones by opting for blackout curtains with pale outer fabric paired with foam-backed lining or triple-weave inner core.

Windows that face the sun will demonstrate greater light leakage through light-colored fabrics particularly at their edges and seams. Wraparound curtain rods or valance layering can solve these problems.

4. Texture and Finish 

The functional effectiveness and visual impact of blackout curtains depend greatly on the fabric texture and finish.

Matte vs. Shiny: 

Brushed cotton and canvas are examples of matte fabrics that absorb light which helps create a dimmer atmosphere in a space.

Although they may have blackout lining behind them, shiny fabrics such as silk and satin can reflect ambient light which creates glare and decreases blackout effectiveness.

Smooth vs. Textured: 

Smooth finishes present a sleek and modern appearance which integrates effectively into minimalist design spaces.

Velvet, chenille, and jacquard fabrics create depth and dimension in interior spaces while providing better insulation and improved light blocking.

Texture also affects the way fabric drapes. Structured and formal appearances can be achieved through stiffer fabrics whereas softer textures create flowing and relaxed looks.

Heavily textured fabrics show superior performance at capturing light, sound, and heat which makes them ideal for bedrooms and home theaters.

Summary of Key Characteristics: 

• Feature Why It Matters 
• Opacity & Weave Tighter weave = better light-blocking 
• Thicker materials provide better insulation and light-blocking capabilities.
• Although color influences how light is reflected or absorbed by a curtain it does not determine its blackout capability.
• The texture and finish of fabric influence both its appearance and how it drapes while affecting light reflection.

IV. Best Fabric Types for Blackout Curtains 

Selecting the proper material for blackout curtains allows you to maintain your original interior design vision. A broad range of materials exists on the market where every option presents specific advantages and disadvantages. The top blackout curtain fabrics blend visual appeal and functional performance to provide the necessary room-darkening power without losing comfort or style.

Explore top-performing fabrics that deliver blackout functionality for curtains.

1. Polyester 

Pros: 

Cost-effective 

Durable and wrinkle-resistant 

Easy to clean 

Widely available in triple-weave form 

Cons: 

May feel synthetic 

Not always breathable 

Blackout curtains made of polyester need additional lining to achieve full darkness unless they feature a triple-woven construction.

Polyester stands out as the leading fabric choice for contemporary blackout curtains because it delivers outstanding performance and benefits. This fabric offers good value for money and requires minimal maintenance while maintaining its strength over time. Triple-weave construction in many polyester blackout curtains features a black yarn core sandwiched between two colored fabric layers that provide built-in light blocking.

Polyester fabric maintains vibrant colors and doesn’t shrink because it’s synthetic which makes it ideal for long-term applications. Polyester feels less organic than cotton or linen to the touch and budget-friendly products could release off-gassing when freshly made. While its thermal insulation capabilities are satisfactory it doesn’t offer adequate breathability which becomes problematic when used in hot environments.

To achieve complete blackout performance, you need to combine non-triple-woven polyester curtains with a foam or thermal lining.

2. Velvet 

Pros: 

Naturally thick and light-blocking 

Excellent for thermal insulation 

Luxurious, high-end aesthetic 

Great for sound dampening 

Cons: 

Heavier than most fabrics 

Usually more expensive 

Attracts dust and pet hair 

May require professional cleaning 

Velvet remains the top choice for luxury blackout curtains. The naturally dense pile and weight of the fabric blocks substantial light from passing through without requiring any additional lining. Velvet excels in bedrooms, home theaters, and formal living rooms where you need both sound absorption and thermal insulation.

The combination of dense weaving and plush texture in velvet fabric produces an atmosphere of opulence and royalty. But with this elegance comes extra care. The fabric of velvet attracts dust which leads to the loss of its sheen and pile if not maintained correctly. Consider opting for crushed velvet or synthetic velvet blends when you want a more durable and simpler-to-maintain fabric alternative.

Attaining maximum blackout performance requires a quality lining even for velvet if you wish to improve energy efficiency or shield the fabric from ultraviolet light degradation.

3. Suede and Faux Suede 

Pros: 

Soft and stylish 

Effective at blocking light 

Mid-weight and drapes beautifully 

Adds texture and warmth to a room 

Cons: 

Can be prone to staining 

May require gentle or spot cleaning 

Not as breathable as natural fibers 

Suede and faux suede fabrics combine soft textures with deep color richness. Thanks to their dense nap and weight, suede and faux suede fabrics provide moderate to strong light-blocking capabilities making them an ideal option between velvet and polyester.

Faux suede which manufacturers usually produce from microfiber or polyester materials offers a similar appearance and texture to authentic suede while remaining budget-friendly and simple to maintain. Suede and faux suede fabrics show increased sensitivity to moisture and oils which makes them less suitable for humid areas or spaces with kitchen grease.

To improve their ability to block light and prevent light leakage through seams and stitching holes a blackout lining should be added.

4. Triple-Weave Fabric 

What Is Triple-Weave Construction? 

The design of blackout curtains now features the modern triple-weave fabric technology. The fabrication process combines three fabric layers together.

The visible outer layer of these curtains is decorative and typically features color or texture.

A dense, black inner layer 

A coordinating back layer 

The dense black middle layer provides triple-weave fabrics with their superior ability to block light. The center layer absorbs and traps light while the outer layers protect the overall look of the curtain.

Benefits of Triple-Weave Blackout Fabric: 

No additional lining needed 

This fabric proves lighter with enhanced flexibility when compared to velvet or suede.

Usually machine-washable 

Affordable and widely available 

Triple-weave curtains often come made from polyester material which provides resistance to wrinkles and fading.

Drawbacks: 

These curtains typically allow 5-15% of light to pass through instead of achieving complete darkness.

Less sound insulation than heavier fabrics 

May feel synthetic 

Triple-weave curtains provide a cost-effective blackout solution for homeowners who want a single curtain solution without installing additional lining. Triple-weave curtains provide perfect light management solutions for bedrooms, offices and living rooms where people need light control without bulky weight.

5. Lined Cotton or Linen 

Why Natural Fabrics Need Blackout Linings: 

People love cotton and linen because they offer breathability together with environmental benefits. These materials offer a soft and airy elegance that pairs well with minimalist, coastal, and rustic window treatments. The looser weave and lighter texture of these fabrics permit substantial light transmission.

Natural fiber curtains require a special lining to function as blackout window treatments. Light-blocking occurs through either a foam lining attached to the curtain or by adding a separate panel behind it for darkness control.

Advantages: 

Excellent for warm climates 

Aesthetic flexibility: classic, modern, farmhouse, coastal 

Naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking 

The fabric can be easily colored or printed to create multiple design options

Disadvantages: 

Wrinkles more easily than synthetics 

Shrinks if not pre-washed or treated 

Requires regular cleaning to avoid mildew 

The combination of cotton or linen with a high-quality blackout lining creates a powerful hybrid material that blends natural aesthetics with complete blackout performance.

V. Fabric + Lining = True Blackout 

The best approach to reach blackout conditions involves pairing your chosen fabric with a lining that improves its function. Not all fabrics have natural blackout features because many natural materials require extra measures to block out light.

Now we’ll examine all important lining choices and their associated decisions.

Types of Blackout Linings 

Foam-Backed Lining: 

The lining consists of a thick layer that’s either white or colored and treated with a coating of acrylic or rubber-based foam.

Provides superior light-blocking performance reaching 100% while delivering excellent thermal insulation.

Cotton, linen, and silk curtain shells work best with these lining options.

Thermal Lining: 

This insulation-focused lining mirrors foam-backed options but targets thermal performance.

This lining works best for cold environments and areas with direct sunlight exposure.

Blocks light and reduces energy loss. 

Separate Blackout Panels: 

Ideal for flexibility and layering. 

Can be clipped behind existing curtains. 

Perfect for renters or seasonal needs. 

Sateen Lining: 

The sateen lining material possesses a lightweight shine which makes it commonly used to improve aesthetic appeal.

This lining requires additional blackout foam backing to block light completely.

Pre-Lined vs. DIY Lining 

There are two main options available when purchasing blackout curtains.

• Pre-lined blackout curtains: These curtains come pre-lined with blackout material for immediate hanging. This option delivers immediate results with a professional finish.

• DIY lining: Enables you to tailor your fabric choices together with lining selections. Choose a decorative outer fabric that lets you attach or sew your blackout lining behind it.

DIY is ideal if: 

You want to match specific room decor 

You have sewing expertise or you plan to employ a tailor.

You should select a design that allows changing the blackout lining while keeping the outer curtain intact.

Double-Layered Drapery vs. Built-In Triple-Weave 

Each method provides outstanding blackout performance but they fulfill different needs.

• Feature Double-Layered Drapery Triple-Weave Fabric 
• Customizability High: Customers can select any fabric type but must adhere to the designs currently in stock.
• Properly installed blackout curtains deliver 100% performance although they usually achieve between 85–95%.
• Weight Heavier Lighter and easier to hang 
• Thermal/Sound Insulation Excellent Moderate 

Design Flexibility High Moderate 

Choose a double-layer setup when you need total blackout and noise reduction in a room. The triple-weave design offers adequate light management without adding bulk to any space requiring moderate control.

VI. Room-Specific Recommendations 

Each room requires a unique approach to blackout needs. Some rooms require complete darkness and soundproofing while others perform better with flexible style and minimal light reduction.

These guidelines will help you choose the right fabric for each room based on specific needs.

1. Bedroom 

Goal: To optimize a bedroom environment select fabrics that block light completely minimize surrounding noise provide privacy and maintain consistent temperature levels.

Recommended Fabrics: 

Triple-weave polyester for an affordable, effective solution. 

Velvet or suede materials offer both insulating properties and effective light blocking while delivering an elegant appearance.

Choose lined cotton or linen fabrics to achieve a natural, breathable texture.

Tips: 

Mount curtains with ceiling mounts or wraparound rods to prevent side openings.

Double-panel curtains offer additional insulation along with complete blackout capabilities.

2. Nursery 

Goal: During daytime naps maintain darkness by blocking light ensure quietness and select materials free from hazards.

Recommended Fabrics: 

Triple-weave polyester for lightweight, washable performance. 

Cotton lined with foam ensures hypoallergenic comfort while providing complete blackout functionality.

Tips: 

Choose fabrics with OEKO-TEX certification to avoid harmful chemicals.

Do not choose heavy velvet or suede fabrics for curtains in areas where toddlers might pull them.

Add blackout roller shades to achieve superior performance.

3. Home Theater 

Goal: To improve your home theater experience you need to remove glare and reduce noise while enhancing the room’s atmosphere.

Recommended Fabrics: 

Use velvet or blackout suede to achieve top-notch control over light and sound.

Dark-colored triple-weave polyester for lightweight affordability. 

Tips: 

Choose floor-to-ceiling drapes for cinematic flair. 

The use of deep hues such as burgundy, navy, or charcoal creates a more immersive environment.

Add acoustic panels to your home theater setup when your curtains fail to provide adequate soundproofing.

4. Living Room 

Goal: Achieve privacy and light management through aesthetically pleasing design elements.

Recommended Fabrics: 

Blackout-lined linen or cotton offers casual style with light blocking capabilities.

Triple-weave polyester for neutral, understated modern designs. 

Layered approach: pair sheer curtains with blackout drapes. 

Tips: 

Selecting lighter shades prevents social spaces from becoming too dark.

Attach tiebacks to curtains so that natural light enters during waking hours.

Select fabrics that match your existing upholstery and decorative styles.

VII. Aesthetic Considerations 

Functionality should guide your choice of blackout curtain fabrics but aesthetic appeal must not be disregarded. The visual appeal of a room depends heavily on curtains which bring together color, texture, and style to anchor the space. Selecting the appropriate fabric plays a pivotal role in creating blackout curtains that remain both functional and stylish.

How Fabric Affects Overall Room Design 

The fabric selection determines whether it will enhance your home’s interior design or create a mismatched appearance. The luxurious feel and grand appearance of velvet make it perfect for sophisticated living rooms and lavish bedrooms. Cotton and linen fabrics create a relaxed atmosphere that matches minimalist or coastal room styles and maintain their natural look when combined with blackout linings.

Texture also plays a pivotal role. Matte fabrics naturally blend into the background making them perfect choices for contemporary minimalist designs. Fabrics with high gloss or intense texture such as faux silk and chenille create visual interest and function as prominent statement elements in a room.

Color selection is another major aesthetic factor. While darker shades block light effectively and create a warm atmosphere they tend to make spaces look smaller. Lighter colors create a more open feel but need a blackout lining or triple-weave design to block all light completely.

Matching Blackout Performance with Style 

Selecting blackout options that maintain style while avoiding a heavy, bland or utilitarian appearance presents a significant challenge. Triple-weave polyester provides numerous print and color choices to create versatile designs while providing excellent blackout functionality without requiring an additional lining. Customers who value luxury design prefer using layered treatments with decorative face fabrics complemented by blackout linings.

Velvet offers both visual and functional richness. Velvet serves as an effective light blocker and sound absorber which enables it to create luxurious settings suitable for home theaters and private bedrooms. Lighter décor elements alongside neutral walls and reflective surfaces help prevent a heavy appearance in small spaces.

Blackout linings are essential for natural materials such as cotton or linen because they provide beautiful organic textures to decorate spaces. Natural fabrics perform best in Scandinavian, farmhouse, and contemporary interiors where designers emphasize both simplicity and tactile appeal.

Implementing Textures and Layering Techniques Prevents a “Heavy” Appearance

Implementing layering techniques provides a sophisticated approach to enhance visual depth and softness without affecting blackout efficiency. A sheer curtain placed before a heavy blackout panel helps to reduce the visual weight and results in an appealing window treatment that feels welcoming. The dual-curtain system allows you to let filtered daylight pass through the sheer layer during daytime hours and to ensure privacy as well as light regulation at night by closing the blackout curtain.

The choice of textures serves as a key factor in keeping visual interest alive. The nubby linen fabric combined with blackout lining delivers a lighter and more textured feel compared to flat synthetic materials. Suede and faux suede fabrics deliver a sophisticated soft appearance when applied with restraint so the room remains visually balanced.

Choose curtain rods that allow complete stacking of fabric away from windows to prevent a room from appearing too enclosed by curtains. Natural light is maximized while maintaining an open room atmosphere when blackout function is not required.

VIII. Maintenance and Durability 

Blackout curtains serve as essential home features yet require substantial financial investment especially in custom-made versions. It becomes essential to evaluate the fabric’s longevity with respect to both its appearance and functional performance.

Cleaning Needs of Different Blackout Fabrics 

Different fabrics and constructions require unique care approaches when managing blackout curtains.

Triple-weave blackout curtains made from polyester require minimal upkeep. These fabrics remain free from shrinking and wrinkling while they usually support machine washing or simple spot cleaning. Polyester blends are perfect for busy households and high-traffic areas because of their desirable characteristics.

The luxurious feel of velvet comes with the drawback of attracting dust and pet hair which often necessitates professional cleaning to preserve its plush texture. Routine vacuuming using a soft brush tool helps to minimize buildup. Synthetic blends and crushed velvet fabrics demand less maintenance compared to silk or cotton velvet.

Suede and faux suede materials provide elegant softness yet need considerable maintenance. Although faux suede versions offer better stain protection than real suede which allows them to be spot-cleaned, they need meticulous care to avoid water marks and alterations to their texture.

The combination of cotton and linen with blackout lining causes dual cleaning difficulties. The outer fabric usually allows for machine washing but the blackout lining frequently does not accept this cleaning method when it uses foam-backing or thermal-coating. Dry cleaning becomes the best cleaning method to protect both the fabric and its lining in these situations.

Wrinkle Resistance, Dust Accumulation, and Fading 

Certain fabrics tend to wrinkle more easily with natural materials such as cotton and linen being the most susceptible. Regular steaming or ironing works well for these fabrics but the presence of blackout linings can make the process more difficult. Synthetic blends demonstrate superior resistance to wrinkles and maintain their form effectively.

The buildup of dust remains an important issue when dealing with heavy-textured materials such as velvet and suede. Regular vacuuming of these materials prevents build-up that causes dulling and allergen retention.

Direct sunlight exposure makes fading a significant concern for curtains. Blackout curtains protect interior spaces from UV rays but their outer layers degrade with time. Dark colors tend to fade more noticeably. Selecting fade-resistant materials or adding linings to light-colored drapes will preserve their appearance for a longer time.

Ideal Materials for Long-Term Use 

Polyester blend fabrics along with triple-weave blackout materials deliver the best performance for long-term use. These materials withstand wear well and stay effective at blocking light through years of use while needing minimal maintenance. Even though these fabrics don’t match the sophisticated appearance of natural fibers they serve as affordable and practical choices for areas such as bedrooms and media spaces.

Cotton or linen linings provide an enduring aesthetic appeal that accommodates any decoration style when maintained properly. These fabrics need regular maintenance and re-lining yet provide exceptional breathability and versatility.

IX. Budget and Customization 

The budget usually determines which blackout curtain fabrics consumers select. Understanding where to invest your budget and where to cut costs helps you choose curtains that transform from basic darkening drapes to blackout curtains with superior style.

Cost Differences Between Fabric Types 

Blackout curtain fabric prices fluctuate depending on their material composition and construction while also varying based on whether the blackout feature is built-in or requires additional lining.

Both polyester and triple-weave fabrics represent low-cost choices for blackout curtains. These curtains are produced in large quantities and can be easily purchased because they offer effective light-blocking qualities for a minimal cost between $10 and $25 per panel.

Velvet and suede fabrics represent the most expensive categories in the curtain fabric spectrum. The price of quality velvet ranges from $40 per yard and increases greatly based on its composition like cotton versus synthetic materials as well as pile thickness and brand. Real suede stands among the most costly fabric options and is typically used for upscale and specialized installations.

The price of lined cotton or linen curtains falls between mid and high range based on fabric quality and blackout lining type. Pre-lined options require higher initial costs but make installation easier and deliver reliable results.

Homeowners should look into custom drapes when they need superior blackout performance and precise window coverage.

Homeowners who want a bespoke appearance alongside optimal light blocking or exact measurements will find custom curtains a valuable purchase. Standard curtain solutions frequently create small openings that permit light to enter when windows exceed standard sizes or have irregular shapes.

Custom blackout curtains extend from the ceiling to the floor while wrapping from wall to wall to completely cover a window and block out all light. They also allow for: 

Homeowners can choose premium materials that standard ready-made blackout curtains do not offer.

Custom blackout linings (foam-backed, thermal-insulated, or soundproof) 

Decorative features such as pleats along with trims and multiple layers of sheers

Custom drapery becomes the optimal choice when light sensitivity matters in spaces like nurseries, home theaters, or bedrooms used by night-shift workers.

Ready-Made Blackout Options and Their Fabric Limitations 

While ready-made blackout curtains offer convenience and affordability they also face restrictions in style and performance options. Built-in blackout functionality in curtains often uses synthetic triple-weave polyester that performs well but lacks refined texture and drape.

Limitations include: 

Fewer fabric and color choices 

The standard sizes available for ready-made blackout curtains might not completely hide your windows.

Standard mass-market finishes often do not match well with luxurious interior designs.

The aesthetic quality of ready-made designs has improved thanks to recent advancements. Brand options now include printed triple-weave blackout curtains that feature delicate textures and multiple finishes to resemble natural fabrics.

To achieve optimal blackout performance and visual harmony with ready-made curtains measure your windows precisely and explore different layering and mounting techniques.