There are several key factors when choosing upholstery fabric to be sure you make the right choice. Here are some tips to help you on your way.
Check out our upholstery section for information on our extensive range.
Durability
The tighter the weave of the fabric is usually an indication that it is more durable. Martindale Rub Tests are a measure of the fabrics resistant to abrasions, so the higher the rub count the better for resistance and durability.
Natural fibres can be durable, but synthetics fabrics often offer more resistance to wear and tear. Darker colours and patterns can help hide stains and wear which can enable the fabric look newer for longer.
You need to assess the demands of your household so you can make the correct decision on how durable your fabric needs to be. A score between 15,000 and 25,000 means that a fabric will be suitable for general domestic upholstery. This covers most applications in a domestic setting, including sofas and armchairs that are subject to daily and repeated use.
FR or Non-FR
Understanding the differences can help you decide which one to choose based on your specific needs.
Non-Flame Retardant (Non-FR)
Non-FR fabrics can be suitable to be used in residential settings but do not have any flame-retardant properties as FR fabric does. They do not provide the same level of fire safety as FR fabrics but are more affordable and have a wider choice of styles/colours.
If you’re working with a professional upholsterer, they may refuse to work with non-FR fabric. Also, if you’re creating or re-upholstering furniture yourself with intent to sell on, it would be illegal; to do this with non-FR fabric.
Flame Retardant (FR)
FR fabrics are designed to resist ignition and to slow down the spread of fire and must be used in public buildings, healthcare and hotels where safety is a priority. Our ranges of Boutique Velvet, Faux Suede, Nevada Faux Leather, Panama Chenille and Ventura all have the option of purchasing with FR treatment.
Read more about fire retardancy at: https://www.fabric-online.co.uk/support/article/what-is-fire-retardant-fabric/
Maintenance
Low Maintenance Upholstery Fabric
If your home has children and pets, then it’s probably advisable to choose a fabric that is low maintenance. Mucky paws, sticky fingers and spills can be hard work when trying to keep things looking clean and new.
Easy to clean fabrics include microfibre, synthetic blend, such as polyester and acrylic, which are easy to clean and more resistant to wear and tear. Usually more affordable and require less frequent professional cleaning.
Our easy to clean upholstery fabric include, faux leather, faux suede, wool-look, boutique and any other wipe clean fabric.
Higher maintenance Upholstery Fabric
If you aren’t concerned about having your furniture professionally cleaned but want a fabric with durability and finish, then the natural wool and tapestry fabric are great choices.
Style
Decide whether you want the fabric to blend in or match existing décor or prefer a statement piece of furniture that will turn heads.
Consider the specific needs of what room and type of furniture for example: high traffic area, living room, bedroom, occasional use or everyday use. Once you have established what the function will be this should steer you to the best fabric and style for your use. Dark colours can help hide stains and wear, making them practical for high-use areas. Light colours reflect natural light making rooms appear brighter and more spacious.
Plain fabric can easily be matched and blended with existing décor and there are great choices of patterned fabric for a statement piece.
Darker colours and patterns can help hide stains and wear which can enable the fabric look newer for longer.
Outdoor fabric will need to be UV-resistant if you want to slow down fading and discolouration in sunlight and water-resistant if you want to keep the furniture outside for longer periods of time.
Whether your preference is for modern, traditional or novelty, there are plenty of options for all.
Comfort
Comfortable fabric often has a pleasing texture that adds to the overall aesthetic of your furniture. They can make a room feel more inviting and stylish.
Upholstery encourages relaxation and can make your living space more welcoming and cozier.
A comfortable and inviting living space can contribute to emotional well-being by providing a place to unwind and de-stress.
To make sure you have chosen the right fabric make sure you get samples of your choices before placing an order.
Budget
Set yourself a budget of what you are comfortable spending. This will help to determine which fabrics fit your criteria.
Conclusion
Fabric choice needs to be functional and visually pleasing.
Our Recommendations
- Boutique
- Nevada
- Plush
- Grampian
- Faux Suede
Boutique Velvet Navy
Nevada Faux Leather Marble Slate Grey
Plush FR Velvet Oyster
Grampian Wool-Look Pembroke
Faux Suede Dark Olive
Explore the effortless synergy between durability and style with our exceptional selection of upholstery fabrics. Designed to meet the challenges of wear of our beloved armchairs and sofas, our range of modern upholstery fabrics are the perfect match for DIY craftsman across the UK.
For more information on upholstery fabric check our website in the upholstery fabric section.
