Two of the most popular decorative metal fabrics for interiors are the chainmail curtain (ring mesh) and coil drapery (chainlink curtain mesh). Both create a shimmering, semi-transparent metal curtain that divides space and diffuses light, but they are made differently and suit different design intents. This guide compares the two so architects and interior designers can specify the right one. KAPHS supplies and installs both across the UAE and GCC.
What is a chainmail curtain (ring mesh)?
A chainmail curtain is made from individually interlinked metal rings — the same principle as historic chainmail. It drapes with a dense, fluid, slightly heavier movement and a jewel-like sparkle. KAPHS supplies this as Ring Mesh, available in stainless steel, bronze, copper and brass. It is favoured for luxury feature curtains, room dividers, feature staircases and signature façades.
What is coil drapery (chainlink curtain mesh)?
Coil drapery is woven from continuous metal coils linked into a flexible fabric, giving a lighter, more linear ripple and a wider range of colour finishes. KAPHS supplies this as Chainlink Curtain Mesh (ChainForm). It is popular for hospitality and retail interiors, backdrops behind reception and bar fronts, and decorative screens where colour and large coverage matter.
Key differences
- Construction: ring mesh uses interlinked rings; coil drapery uses linked coils.
- Look & movement: ring mesh is denser and more jewel-like; coil drapery is lighter and more linear.
- Finishes: both come in metallic and PVD colours; coil drapery offers a broader colour palette.
- Typical use: ring mesh for premium feature curtains and façades; coil drapery for large decorative screens, hospitality and retail.
Which should you choose?
Choose a ring mesh chainmail curtain when you want a dense, luxurious, jewel-like drape for a feature moment or an exterior-grade metal veil. Choose chainlink coil drapery when you need broad colour options, large coverage and a lighter ripple for interior screens and dividers. Both can hang freely or be framed and tensioned. For the wider range of interior uses, see our metal mesh for interior design guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is a chainmail curtain the same as coil drapery?
No. A chainmail curtain (ring mesh) is made from interlinked rings, while coil drapery (chainlink curtain mesh) is woven from linked metal coils. Both are metal drapery, but the construction, weight and look differ.
Can both be used as room dividers?
Yes. Both hang as semi-transparent metal curtains that divide space while letting light through, and both can be framed as fixed decorative screens.
Are they suitable for outdoor use?
Both can be specified in stainless steel for exterior use; ring mesh in particular is widely used on façades. KAPHS advises on the right material and fixing for indoor or outdoor applications.
Specify with KAPHS
KAPHS supplies and installs both ring mesh chainmail curtains and chainlink coil drapery across Dubai and the GCC. Contact our team to compare samples and finishes for your project.