Silk Curtains

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Why would you want to buy and hang a silk curtain in your home? Silk curtains have traditionally been used in the homes of wealthy and working-class alike for centuries. They are practical as well as lovely. Properly cared for, silk can last for many generations, and such a curtain can become an heirloom.

Traditionally, silk is obtained by farming silk moths on mulberry leaves. The cocoons are dropped into boiling water to kill the silkworm before it can damage the threads by eating its way out. However, cruelty-free or "peace" silk is now available. It was developed by a man in India, Kusuma Rajaiah, based on the principle of Ahimsa, fostered by Mahatma Gandhi.The difference is minimal -- the threads may be shorter and may have to be cleaned a bit. The moth is allowed to emerge and fly free to mate and start the next cycle; sometimes, a tiny hole is cut for the moth in the end of the cocoon where the least damage will be done to the threads. Ahimsa silk is more expensive, but also more ethical, as is so-called tussah or eri -- these are wild silk, made from the cocoons of other types of moths, which eat castor bean leaves and other plants besides mulberry.

Everyone appreciates the shimmering beauty of silk. It comes in many colors, weights and weaves. In a cold climate, a heavy fabric shower curtain can be hung in an open doorway for insulation as well as privacy. Sheer silk lends an air of ethereal mystery to the same doorway.

There are a wide variety of manufacturers and distributors. Bedbathstore.com has curtains in several weights, colors and styles starting at $199.99 to $279.99. Crateandbarrel.com sells lovely sheer panels starting at 59.95. Neiman Marcus has beautiful striped curtains starting at 149.90. There are several overseas companies, mostly in India, which can be found online, although many of these are wholesalers.

If you want to buy Ahimsa or cruelty-free silk, start at ahimsapeacesilk.com. They do not quote prices on the website, but one can get an idea of the wide variety of colors, weights, styles and types available. Aurorasilk.com sells undyed samples for $2. 1-4 yards of undyed eri-type are $26 per yard, 5+ yards are $23, and bolts (30-yard rolls) are $20/yard or $600. Dyed eri silk is $50 per yard. You can easily make this gorgeous fabric into curtains.

Be sure not to be taken in by clever fakes. Faux silk curtains or poly silk, made of synthetics, is for people who want the superficial appearance of silk without the price. Intelligent and discriminating buyers will settle for nothing less than the real thing, even if they have to save money for it over time.

You will be glad you chose to decorate with silk. Consider a silk curtain or two (or more!) in your home.