How to Choose the Best Upholstery Fabric for Furniture
Choosing the right upholstery fabric for your furniture is an essential part of home décor that impacts both style and functionality. With so many options available, selecting the perfect fabric can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to simplify the process, ensuring you choose a material that meets your needs and complements your home!
Featured Fabric: Julia Latte
What Exactly is Upholstery?
Upholstery is all about the materials that make your furniture comfy and stylish, from the fabric to the padding, webbing, and springs. These layers add both comfort and visual appeal to sofas, chairs, and ottomans. Choosing the right upholstery fabric is key—it affects how your furniture looks, feels, and lasts, as well as how easy it is to care for.
With so many textures, colors, and patterns out there, each fabric brings something unique to the table. Understanding these options helps you find the perfect fit for your space and lifestyle. So, let’s dive in!
Criteria to Keep in Mind When Choosing Fabric
When selecting upholstery fabric, consider the following criteria to ensure you make the best choice:
1. Durability
Durability is crucial, especially if the furniture will be used frequently or if you have pets or children. Look for fabrics with a high rub count or double rubs, a measurement that indicates the fabric’s resistance to wear and tear. Materials like performance fabric, microfiber, and tightly woven fabrics are often more durable.
2. Color and Pattern
Color and pattern are significant aesthetic considerations. Choose colors that complement your existing décor and patterns that suit your style. Neutral colors are versatile and timeless, while bold patterns can make a statement.
Also consider how the fabric's color will look in different lighting and how it might fade over time.
*Designer Tip: Order fabric samples called Snips to check how a fabric looks in your space with lighting and other design elements!
Photo By: @oliviabloomdesign
3. Texture
Texture adds depth and interest to furniture. Think about how the fabric feels to the touch and whether it suits the overall style of your room. For example, smooth fabrics like velvet add a touch of luxury, while textured fabrics like linen offer a more casual feel.
4. Maintenance and Care
Consider the level of maintenance required for the fabric. Some materials, like cotton and linen, are more prone to staining and may require professional cleaning. Others, like Crypton and performance fabric, are easier to clean and maintain. Be realistic about how much time and effort you're willing to invest in upkeep.
5. Fade Resistance
If your furniture will be placed in a room with a lot of sunlight, choose fabrics that are fade-resistant. Sunlight can cause colors to fade over time, so selecting fabrics designed to withstand UV exposure is essential for maintaining their appearance.
6. Enviornmental Impact
For those concerned about the environment, consider fabrics made from sustainable or recycled materials. Cotton, Crypton, and recycled polyester are eco-friendly options that minimize environmental impact. Interested to learn more? Check out our blog post Eco-Friendly Choices: Sustainable Fabrics for a Greener Home
Steps to Choosing a Fabric
Now that you understand the criteria for selecting upholstery fabric, follow these steps to guide your decision:
1. Assess Your Needs
Consider the furniture piece’s primary function and location. Will it be used daily in a family room or as an accent piece in a formal living room? Assessing your needs helps you prioritize the most important factors, such as durability or aesthetic appeal.
Featured Fabric: Bria Tomato
Photo By: @salisburypeckhouse
2. Research Fabric Options
Research different types of upholstery fabrics to understand their characteristics. Some popular options include:
Microfiber: A synthetic fabric known for its durability and resistance to stains, making it ideal for homes with pets or children.
Velvet: Luxurious and soft, velvet adds elegance to furniture.
Crypton: A durable, stain-resistant fabric ideal for high-traffic areas, offering easy maintenance and comfort.
Boucle: A textured fabric with a looped surface that adds unique visual interest.
Chenille: Soft and plush, chenille provides a cozy and luxurious feel.
Linen Blends: A natural fiber with a textured appearance, linen is breathable and eco-friendly.
*Designer Tip: Check out our Ultimate Guide to Upholstery Fabrics to deep dive into the different materials!
3. Consider the Furniture Style
The style of the furniture should guide your fabric choice. Traditional furniture styles may pair well with classic fabrics like velvet, while modern designs may benefit from sleek materials like microfiber. Additionally, consider the scale of the pattern in relation to the size of the furniture piece; a large-scale pattern may overwhelm a small chair, while a smaller pattern can complement it nicely.
4. Test Fabric Samples
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request our fabric samples, called Snips, to test in your home environment. Feel their texture and examine them in various lighting conditions and against other elements of your décor. Using Snips is the best way to feel confident about your choices, and the cost of the Snips will be credited back to your account for use towards future yardage orders!
5. Check Durability Ratings
Review the durability ratings of the fabrics you are considering. The industry standard is measured in double rubs, with a higher number indicating greater durability.
6. Evaluate Maintenance Requirements
Consider the maintenance requirements of each fabric option. If you prefer low-maintenance fabrics, choose materials that are stain-resistant and easy to clean. Check the care instructions for each fabric type to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle.
7. Set a Budget
Upholstery fabrics vary widely in price, so set a budget before making your final decision. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in a higher-quality fabric can save you money in the long run by extending the life of your furniture.
Make Your Decision!
Featured Fabric: Madalyn Carbon
Photo By: @silverlinedesign__
Choosing the right upholstery fabric for your furniture is a big deal—it can really shape the look and feel of your space. With everything you’ve learned here, go ahead and pick a fabric that achieves the perfect blend of style, function, and budget. Remember, the right upholstery doesn’t just make your furniture look amazing—it also fits your lifestyle. Trust your instincts, and make your space uniquely yours!
