The sources of fabric goods can be broadly categorized into imported and domestic options. Imported fabrics typically come from countries such as Spain, France, Germany, the United States, as well as neighboring regions like South Korea and Japan. Fabrics that are imported through official channels often offer a smooth texture, excellent drape, and a comfortable feel. While the quality of some domestically produced fabrics has improved in recent years, there are still five key differences between imported and local fabrics:

First, there is a difference in material composition. Curtain fabrics are generally classified into categories such as cotton, hemp, silk, cashmere, polyester, and blended materials. Some domestic products may look similar to imported ones at first glance, but they often feel thinner, have less drape, and lack flexibility. The hand feel is usually not as soft or full as that of imported fabrics.

Second, there are variations in luster and color quality. Many locally produced fabrics tend to have dull colors, lower color purity, and a more grayish tone, which can make the fabric appear less clean or vibrant. In terms of design innovation, domestic fabrics also fall short in both richness and trendiness compared to their imported counterparts.

Third, differences exist in the printing and dyeing processes. The whiteness of white prints in domestic products is often insufficient, with issues like poor line continuity and lack of vividness. The precision of printing is significantly lower than that of imported fabrics. On the other hand, imported fabrics use advanced machinery and high-quality dyes, resulting in brighter colors, better gloss, and more accurate color reproduction.

Fourth, there are distinctions in fabric performance. Cotton fabrics, for example, tend to shrink, and currently, there is no strict standard for shrinkage in many domestic products. In contrast, European and American countries typically enforce standards of 3% to 5%. Some sofas made from domestic cotton fabrics are difficult to clean, and once they shrink, it’s nearly impossible to restore them to their original shape. These fabrics are often thin and prone to wear and tear.

Fifth, there are differences in environmental and safety standards. Many domestic household fabrics are made from synthetic fibers derived from coal, petroleum, and natural gas. These materials are not only poor at absorbing moisture and tend to be air-tight, but they can also release harmful substances like formaldehyde. In contrast, most imported fabrics are made from natural fibers, such as those obtained directly from cultivated plants or farmed animals. When purchasing curtain fabrics, it's wise to check for any strong odors. If the product emits a pungent smell, it might contain residual formaldehyde, and it's best to avoid such items.