In hospitality and other large-scale commercial projects, the way a fabric is woven can have a significant impact on both the finished look and the installation cost. One of the most important, but often misunderstood, concepts in drapery specification is railroaded fabric.

Let’s break it down...

 

What does "railroaded" mean?

Most standard drapery fabrics are woven at 54" wide. In this case, the pattern runs parallel to the selvage (the finished edge of the fabric). When fabric is used for tall drapery panels, it must be turned vertically; often requiring multiple panels to be seamed together to achieve the necessary fullness.

A railroaded fabric is woven differently:

• The pattern runs across the width of the fabric (perpendicular to the selvage).
• The usable width is typically much wider. Often 110" to 118".
• The fabric can be used “sideways” for drapery without turning it.

The term comes from the idea that the pattern runs like railroad tracks across the roll.

 

Why Wide Width / Railroaded Drapery Makes Sense

Railroaded fabrics offer several key advantages:

1. Fewer Seams (Or No Seams at All)

Image courtesy of cozyology.

 

With 54" fabric, a 120" tall panel with 2x fullness typically requires multiple widths sewn together. That means:

• Visible vertical seams
• Increased labor
• More opportunity for pattern mismatch

Railroaded fabric often allows a panel to be fabricated with no vertical seams, creating:

• A cleaner aesthetic
• Better pattern continuity
• A more upscale finished appearance

Eliminating seams can significantly elevate the look of the final result.

2. Reduced Labor Costs

Wide-width fabric reduces the number of widths required per panel. Fewer widths means:

• Less cutting
• Fewer seams
• Less workroom time

For large projects (think 200+ guest rooms), this labor reduction can meaningfully impact total installation costs.

Even if the price per yard is higher, the fabrication savings often offset it.

 

3. Improved Pattern Consistency

With standard width fabrics, pattern matching across seams requires additional yardage and careful alignment.

Railroaded fabrics:

• Eliminate vertical pattern breaks
• Simplify repeat alignment
• Reduce the risk of visible inconsistencies

This is especially important for:

• Subtle textures
• Linear patterns
• Brands with strict design standards

 

4. Better Performance for Tall Windows

In hospitality and commercial spaces, ceiling heights frequently exceed residential standards. Wide-width fabrics are particularly advantageous when:

• Finished panel heights exceed 108"
• Fullness requirements are 2x or greater
• Blackout backing is required

Railroaded goods are designed to accommodate these larger-scale applications efficiently.

 

When Standard Width Still Makes Sense

Railroaded isn’t always the answer. Standard width (54") fabric may be appropriate when:

• The pattern has a strong vertical orientation
• The project requires a specific design only available in narrow width
• The drapery height is modest and doesn’t require multiple widths

The key is evaluating the application, not defaulting to one format.

 

Specify Strategically

When specifying drapery for hospitality projects, ask:

• What is the finished panel height?
• What fullness ratio is required?
• Will seams impact the visual?
• What is the fabrication cost difference?

Wide-width, railroaded fabrics are often the most efficient path to achieving:

• Seamless aesthetics
• Controlled fabrication costs
• Cleaner installations
• Elevated perceived value

For projects focused on delivering an elevated look without unnecessary expense, understanding railroaded production can make all the difference.

See the standard and wide-width drapery options we offer, or contact us to discuss what makes the most sense for your project.