When it comes to making your home cozy, energy-efficient, and sleep-friendly, blackout curtains are a must. But if you already have beautiful eyelet curtains and don’t want to replace them entirely, you’ll be glad to know you can fit blackout curtain lining behind them yourself.

In this comprehensive DIY guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to attach blackout curtain lining with eyelets​—no sewing machine required! Whether you're looking to block light, reduce noise, or save on heating bills, this project is easy, affordable, and transformative.

Why Add Blackout Lining to Eyelet Curtains?

Eyelet curtains are popular for their stylish drape and easy installation. However, many are made from lightweight fabrics that allow light to filter through. Rather than buying expensive new blackout curtains, adding a blackout lining can deliver all the benefits while preserving your current décor.

Benefits of Adding Blackout Lining:

  • Better Sleep: Blocks 95–100% of light, perfect for bedrooms and nurseries.
  • Thermal Insulation: Helps keep rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
  • Noise Reduction: Thick lining dampens outside noise.
  • UV Protection: Protects furniture and flooring from sun damage.
  • Cost Savings: More budget-friendly than replacing existing curtains.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fitting Blackout Lining to Eyelet Curtains

Step 1: Measure Your Curtains

Start by removing the curtains from the pole and laying them flat.

  • Measure the width and drop (height) of one curtain panel.
  • Add 1–2 cm seam allowance around the edges if you plan to hem.
  • Repeat for each panel.

Tip: If your curtains are gathered or pleated, always measure them when they’re fully spread out.

Step 2: Cut the Blackout Lining

Using your measurements:

  • Lay the blackout fabric flat.
  • Mark the width and height using tailor’s chalk or a pencil.
  • Cut carefully with sharp fabric scissors.

Ensure that the lining is slightly smaller than the curtain if you want it to sit neatly behind without peeking out.

Step 3: Iron the Lining Fabric

Blackout fabric often comes folded, which can leave deep creases.

  • Use a warm (not hot) iron on the non-rubberized side.
  • Place a cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid damage.
  • Smooth out any wrinkles for a professional finish.

Step 4: Hem the Edges (Optional but Recommended)

Hemming the raw edges of the blackout lining will:

  • Prevent fraying
  • Extend the lifespan of the lining
  • Improve visual appeal

You can hem in three ways:

  1. Sewing with a machine or by hand
  2. Using iron-on hemming tape
  3. Folding and sticking with fabric glue

Fold the edges by about 1 cm and secure them with your chosen method.

Step 5: Line Up the Eyelets

The biggest challenge with blackout lining for eyelet curtains is ensuring the eyelets align perfectly so the curtain can slide on the pole as normal.

Here’s how:

  • Lay the curtain flat, right side down.
  • Place the lining on top, with the eyelet edge aligned with the curtain’s top.
  • Using a pen or chalk, mark the center of each eyelet on the lining.

Then:

  • Use curtain eyelet clip rings (available at fabric or home stores)
  • Or cut your own holes and fit plastic snap-on eyelets (comes in kits)

📏 The spacing between the eyelets must be identical to the curtain’s.

Step 6: Attach the Lining to the Curtain

You have a few options depending on the hardware you’ve chosen:

Option 1: Clip-On Rings

  • These rings sandwich the lining and clip around the curtain eyelets.
  • They’re removable and easy to install—no sewing or holes needed.

Option 2: Snap-On Eyelets

  • If you cut holes in the lining, snap the rings around the hole.
  • Then thread both the curtain and lining through the same curtain pole.

Option 3: Safety Pins or Curtain Hooks

  • Pin the top corners and a few points down the curtain sides.
  • Use safety pins on the back so they’re not visible from the front.

Pro Tip: Stitch a few invisible tacking points down the side seams to keep the lining secure without interfering with curtain movement.

Step 7: Hang and Test the Curtains

Now rehang the curtains on the pole:

  • Slide the curtains and lining onto the pole together.
  • Check that the eyelets align and the fabric folds naturally.
  • Adjust side edges to ensure full coverage of the window.

Pull them closed in the daytime and inspect:

  • Are there any light leaks at the sides or top?
  • If so, consider extending the curtain rod or adding Velcro strips to attach edges to the wall.

Alternative Method: Buying Ready-Made Eyelet Blackout Linings

If DIY isn’t your thing or you’re short on time, several brands sell ready-made blackout linings with built-in eyelets.

Advantages:

  • Pre-sized to standard curtain dimensions
  • Perfect eyelet alignment
  • Quick and simple to install
  • No sewing or cutting required

Just hook them to the same pole as your existing curtains. These are widely available online or at major homeware retailers.

Styling Tips for Blackout Lined Eyelet Curtains

Adding lining doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. In fact, lined curtains hang better and feel more luxurious.

Coordinate with Décor:

  • Match lining color to your curtain fabric if it might be visible.
  • White or ivory linings create a bright, clean appearance.
  • Charcoal or grey linings offer better light-blocking and a modern look.

Add Accessories:

  • Use magnetic tiebacks or tassels to keep them open during the day.
  • Pair with a pelmet or valance to hide the curtain pole and reduce top light leakage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Misaligned Eyelets

Always double-check alignment before attaching. Mismatched holes will cause bunching or prevent smooth sliding.

Cutting Too Much

It’s better to cut slightly bigger and trim later. Fabric can't be uncut!

Using Heavy Lining with Weak Poles

Blackout fabric is thick and heavy. Make sure your curtain rod and wall brackets can support the added weight.

Forgetting to Wash

Wash and iron your curtain and lining before installation to prevent shrinkage after hanging.

FAQs About Fitting Blackout Lining to Eyelet Curtains

Can I attach blackout lining without sewing?

Yes! Use clip-on rings, snap-on eyelets, hemming tape, or curtain pins—all no-sew methods.

Will the blackout lining show through my curtains?

If your curtain fabric is very sheer, a dark-colored lining may be visible. Choose a white or light grey lining for best aesthetics.

How do I clean blackout lined curtains?

  • Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment regularly.
  • Spot clean stains with a damp cloth.
  • For deep cleaning, remove the lining and follow care instructions separately.

Can I remove the lining later?

Yes, especially with clip-on or snap-on methods. It’s reversible and won’t damage your original curtains.

What thickness of lining should I use?

Look for 250–300 GSM (grams per square meter) for full blackout and insulation. Lower GSM fabrics may still let some light in.

Final Thoughts: Is DIY Blackout Lining Worth It?

Absolutely! Fitting blackout curtain lining with eyelets is a smart and budget-friendly way to upgrade your space without replacing your existing curtains.

You’ll enjoy:

  • Peaceful, dark sleep environments
  • Better temperature control
  • UV and light protection
  • Long-term energy savings

With just a few tools and a bit of time, you can transform the functionality of your home while preserving its style.