The Sheer Stripe vs The Studio Linen: Light Filtering and Privacy Review of Nordic Knots Curtains

When it comes to dressing your windows, finding the perfect balance between natural light and privacy can feel like a challenge. Sheer curtains often let in too much light, while blackout drapes can make a room feel dark and closed off. Nordic Knots offers two standout curtain options that strike a middle ground: The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black and The Studio Linen – Sunrise. In this review, we compare their light filtering capabilities, privacy levels, and overall design to help you decide which curtain is best for your space.

Both curtains are designed with Scandinavian simplicity and functionality in mind, but they serve slightly different purposes. The Sheer Stripe offers a delicate, airy look with subtle stripes that break up the light, while The Studio Linen brings a textured, relaxed feel with its natural linen fabric. We tested each for their ability to filter harsh sunlight, obscure outside views, and maintain a cozy atmosphere indoors. Read on for our honest assessment.

Light Filtering Performance: How Much Light Do They Block?

Light filtering is one of the most important factors when choosing curtains, especially for living rooms and bedrooms where you want soft, diffused light without glare. The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black uses a fine weave with a black stripe running vertically, which helps break up direct sunlight and reduces harsh shadows. During our midday test, the curtain allowed about 60% of natural light through, creating a bright but gentle glow that never felt overwhelming. The black stripes also add a subtle pattern that softens the light as it passes through.

On the other hand, The Studio Linen – Sunrise has a denser weave due to its linen composition. It filters approximately 40% of incoming light, making it a better option for rooms that need a bit more shade without going fully dark. The linen fabric scatters the light beautifully, giving the room a warm, golden hue that feels both airy and intimate. Both curtains excel at reducing UV exposure, though the linen option offers slightly more protection for furniture and flooring over time.

• The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black: ~60% light transmission, best for spaces that crave brightness with a touch of pattern.
• The Studio Linen – Sunrise: ~40% light transmission, ideal for bedrooms or south-facing windows where some glare reduction is needed.
• Neither curtain is blackout; for total darkness, pair with a blackout liner.

Privacy Levels: When Can You See Through?

Privacy is a key concern for any window treatment, especially in ground-floor rooms or urban apartments. The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black offers moderate privacy during the day: from the outside, the black and white stripes create a visual noise that makes it difficult to see specific shapes or people moving inside. However, at night when interior lights are on, the fabric becomes more transparent, so you may want to layer it with a heavier curtain or blinds for complete privacy.

The Studio Linen – Sunrise performs considerably better for privacy thanks to the thicker, textured weave of linen. During daylight, it is nearly impossible to see distinct forms through the fabric. Even at night, the linen diffuses light well enough to obscure details, though silhouettes may still be faintly visible if someone stands directly in front of a bright window. For bedrooms and bathrooms, The Studio Linen is the clear winner in this category.

• For daytime privacy, both curtains work well, but The Studio Linen – Sunrise offers higher obscurity.
• For nighttime privacy, consider adding a second layer such as a lightweight shade or pairing with a Plaid – Sand/Cream rug to anchor the room visually.
• If you live in a busy street, The Studio Linen is the safer choice.

Design and Installation: Ease of Use and Aesthetic Appeal

Both curtains are available in standard widths and heights and come with a neat rod pocket or tab top design. The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black has a crisp, modern look that works well in minimalist interiors and industrial lofts. The black vertical stripes add height to windows and create a sense of structure without overpowering the room. Installation is straightforward, and the fabric drapes nicely without excessive wrinkling.

The Studio Linen – Sunrise has a more organic, warm feel. The linen material has natural slubs and slight variations that give it character. It hangs softly and pairs beautifully with natural wood furniture and neutral rugs like the Plaid – Sand/Cream. The Sunrise color is a soft, warm beige that complements both cool and warm color palettes. If you're going for a cozy, hygge-inspired space, this curtain is a no-brainer.

• The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black: best for contemporary, crisp aesthetics.
• The Studio Linen – Sunrise: best for rustic, calming, or Scandinavian decor.
• Both curtains are machine washable on a gentle cycle, making maintenance easy.

Choosing between The Sheer Stripe – Perfect White/Black and The Studio Linen – Sunrise ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you value maximum soft light with a playful pattern and don't mind sacrificing some nighttime privacy, go with the Sheer Stripe. If you need a curtain that offers better obscurity, warmth, and timeless texture, The Studio Linen – Sunrise is the perfect pick. Both are excellent quality and will elevate your home's ambiance. Ready to transform your windows? Explore The Studio Linen – Sunrise and enjoy the perfect balance of light and privacy.