The Complete Guide to Buying Fabric Online

Choosing the right upholstery fabric is like finding the perfect outfit for your furniture—it’s got to look great, feel amazing, and stand up to everyday life. Whether you’re breathing new life into a well-loved chair or starting fresh with a custom piece, your fabric choice sets the tone for style, comfort, and durability. And the best part? With online shopping, you have access to an incredible selection of upholstery fabrics at your fingertips. No need to spend hours hunting through swatches in stores—you can explore, compare, and even order samples from the comfort of your home.

But with so many options out there, how do you know which fabric is right for you? That’s where we come in. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of upholstery fabrics, from understanding different types to finding the perfect match for your space. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a DIY enthusiast, we’re here to make fabric shopping fun, inspiring, and totally stress-free.

The fabric you choose is the key to unlocking an ottoman’s full potential—durable options promise resilience against daily life’s demands, while luxurious materials infuse your home with elegance and style. Embrace this opportunity to make your ottoman not just an item in your home but an inspiring statement of design and purpose!

Understanding Upholstery Fabric

Every fabric has its own personality—some are soft and cozy, others are sleek and sophisticated, and some are built to withstand everything from pet paws to coffee spills. Let’s break it down.

Types of Upholstery Fabric

1. Natural Fibers 

- Cotton: Soft, breathable, and available in endless textures and patterns. It’s a classic, but untreated cotton may be more prone to stains, so a performance finish can be a great way to add extra protection.

- Linen: Laid-back luxury. Linen brings effortless elegance but can wrinkle easily, making it best for lower-traffic pieces.

2. Synthetic Fibers

- Polyester: The workhorse of upholstery fabrics. Stain-resistant, durable, and often blended with natural fibers to enhance strength and texture. Plus, polyester can be recycled, making it a more sustainable option in some cases.

- Olefin (Polypropylene): A powerhouse fabric known for its incredible durability, stain resistance, and ability to handle heavy wear—great for busy homes and outdoor furniture.

- Acrylic: Ideal for outdoor furniture, acrylic is lightweight, resistant to fading, and holds up well in weather conditions. It’s a great choice for cushions and upholstery that will face exposure to the elements.

3. Blended Fabrics & Performance Fabrics

- The best of both worlds! Blends combine natural beauty with synthetic durability. Performance fabrics are specially engineered to resist stains, spills, and everyday wear—perfect for homes with pets and kids.

Featured Fabrics: Menlo Flint, Menlo Grey, Kenley Haze, Marisol Cement, Menlo Slate, Kenley Ink, Everett Atlantic, Menlo Sage, Marina Celery

Key Features to Consider

• Durability: High-traffic furniture needs high-rub-count fabrics (measured in double rubs). The higher the count, the more durable the fabric.
• Stain Resistance: Performance fabrics and treated materials help keep messes at bay—perfect for kids, pets, and everyday life.
• Fade Resistance: Choose fade-resistant fabric for spaces with lots of sunlight to keep colors vibrant. However, fade-resistant doesn't mean fade-proof—rotate cushions and move furniture periodically to prevent consistent direct sunlight exposure.
• Texture & Feel: The best fabric is one you love to touch! Order samples called Snips to experience fabrics in person.
• Maintenance: Some fabrics are easy-clean, while others need professional care. Pick one that fits your lifestyle.

Choosing the Best Upholstery Fabric

Now, how do you narrow it down? Keep these factors in mind.

Factors to Consider

1. How Will It Be Used?

- A well-loved family sofa? A fancy accent chair? Your fabric needs to match your lifestyle. Go for durability in high-traffic areas and indulge in luxury where you can.

2. What's Your Style? 

- Do you love timeless neutrals or bold statements? Cozy textures or sleek, modern finishes? Upholstery fabric sets the vibe of your space, so choose what speaks to you.

3. Who (or What) Lives With You? 

- Got pets, kids, or frequent guests? Performance fabrics are a game-changer. Stain-resistant, easy to clean, and still stylish.

4. What's Your Budget?

- Investing in quality fabric pays off in the long run. Higher-end fabrics offer better durability, but there are great options for every price point.

5. How Much to Buy: Estimating yardage can be tricky, but our Upholstery Yard Resource is here to help

Tips for Finding the Perfect Match

• Order Snips: Photos can be deceiving! Seeing and feeling fabric in person makes all the difference.
• Think About Lighting: Colors can vary on different monitors, and lighting—whether from overhead, lamps, or natural sunlight—can change how fabric looks.
• Check Customer Reviews: Real-world feedback is invaluable when shopping online.

Featured Fabrics: Watts Sage, Richard Heather, Havana Petal

Three Places to Buy Upholstery Fabric Online:

1. Folio Fabrics – Enjoy a curated selection of high-quality fabrics with Snip samples that are shipped fast. Plus, when you order Snips, we’ll credit your purchase toward yardage once you find your perfect fabric.

2. Folio Fabrics – We’re all about customer service, so you can count on us to answer your questions and help you make the right choice. 

3. Folio Fabrics – Seriously, why go anywhere else? We have the variety, service, and all the tools to help you create the perfect space.

Caring for Your Upholstery Fabric

A little TLC goes a long way! Keep your fabric looking fresh with these simple care tips..

Maintenance Tips

• Vacuum Regularly: Dust adn debris can wear down fibers over time
• Spot Clean ASAP: Blot (don't rub!) spills with a damp cloth. 
• Rotate Cushions: This keeps wear even and extends the life of your upholster
• Professional Cleaning: Some fabrics need occasional deep cleaning—check the care instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Harsh Chemicals: Some cleaners can damage fabric. Always test first.
• Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions: Every fabric has its own care needs—follow them for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect upholstery fabric should be fun, not overwhelming. By understanding fabric types, considering your lifestyle, and taking proper care of your furniture, you’ll create a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Online shopping opens up a world of possibilities—explore, experiment, and don’t be afraid to mix things up! 

At Folio Fabrics, we believe great design starts with great materials. Whether you’re looking for performance fabrics that stand up to everyday life or a show-stopping statement piece, we’ve got you covered. Browse our collection and find the fabric that makes your space feel like home.