When building your own soundproof curtains, the fabric you choose makes all the difference. Not all heavy fabrics absorb sound equally—density, thickness, and surface texture matter. Below are the seven best fabrics for DIY soundproof curtains, each tested for noise reduction and ease of use.
1. Velvet
Velvet is a top pick for soundproof curtains thanks to its dense pile and plush texture. The short, tightly packed fibers trap sound waves, reducing echo and absorption. Heavyweight velvet (over 300 GSM) works best. Use it as a single layer or lined with acoustic felt for extra damping.
For DIY, choose 100% cotton or polyester velvet – it hangs beautifully and blocks some light. Care tip: dry clean only to maintain the nap. Velvet also adds a luxurious look, making it ideal for living rooms or home theaters.
2. Acoustic Felt
Acoustic felt is engineered for sound absorption. Made from compressed polyester or recycled fibers, it has a high NRC (noise reduction coefficient). It comes in sheets or rolls and can be sewn into curtain panels. This fabric is non-woven, thick, and rigid—perfect for DIY soundproof curtains when combined with a decorative outer layer.
It’s flame-retardant and moisture-resistant, suitable for studios or offices. To use, sandwich acoustic felt between two layers of blackout fabric. It adds significant mass without being too heavy to hang.
3. Blackout Curtain Fabric
Blackout fabric itself isn’t highly soundproof, but its triple-weave construction (with a black core) adds density. When layered or quilted, it blocks sound and light. For better results, choose a blackout fabric with a foam backing – the foam adds a thin acoustic barrier.
DIY tip: use two layers of blackout fabric with a layer of mass loaded vinyl (MLV) sandwiched in between. This creates a multi-layer curtain that absorbs and blocks noise. Machine washable on gentle cycle.
4. Quilted Curtain Fabric
Quilted fabric, often used for bedspreads, is surprisingly effective for soundproofing. The quilting stitches create air pockets that dissipate sound energy. Look for heavy cotton or polyester quilting with a thick batting (like wool or polyester fiberfill).
You can sew quilting onto a base curtain or buy ready-made quilted panels. It’s breathable yet dense, reducing flutter echo. Care: spot clean only to avoid shifting the batting. Great for nurseries or quiet rooms.
5. Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) Lined Fabric
While MLV itself is a plastic sheet, it is often combined with fabric. For DIY soundproof curtains, use an acoustic fabric (like canvas or polyester) as the outer layer, with MLV sewn into a hem or as a middle layer. MLV adds mass without thickness, blocking sound transmission effectively.
Choose a fabric with a high tensile strength to hold the weight – denim, upholstery fabric, or heavy canvas work well. Sew the MLV into a pocket so it can be removed for cleaning. This combo is popular for recording studios.
6. Heavy Denim or Canvas
Heavy denim (like old jeans) and canvas are dense, tightly woven fabrics that block sound. They are easy to source, affordable, and can be stacked multiple layers. For best results, use two layers of denim with a layer of acoustic wool in between.
Denim’s uneven surface also helps scatter sound waves. You can hang them as-is or sew into Roman shades. Care: machine wash cold, but expect some shrinking. Perfect for a rustic or industrial look.
7. Wool or Wool-Blend Fabric
Wool is a natural acoustic absorber. Its fibers trap sound, reduce echoes, and regulate humidity. Choose a thick wool melton or boiled wool – these are dense and felted. Wool curtains can be heavy, so use a strong curtain rod.
For DIY, line wool with a cotton backing to prevent stretching. It’s naturally flame-retardant and resistant to mold. Hand wash or dry clean only. Ideal for cold climates and soundproofing combined with insulation.
Each fabric has unique benefits. For maximum soundproofing, combine a dense fabric like velvet with an inner layer of acoustic felt or MLV. Test your fabric with a sound meter app to measure improvement. Happy DIY!
