How To Select the Right Upholstery Fabric for Sofa & Chairs?

What Is Upholstery and How Do You Choose the Best Fabric for Your Sofa? |  Architectural Digest

The upholstery fabric for home furnishing is quite an investment. You don’t want it to get it wrong as it will impact the aesthetics of the rooms. So, if you are wondering how to select the right upholstery fabric for sofa and chairs, here is an easy guide to zero in your effort.

What Are The Types Of Upholstery Fabrics?

The upholstery fabrics help you to create a unique look for your living space. The most common upholstery fabrics available in the market are – Cotton, Cotton Velvet, Silk, Duck/Canvas, Linen, Suede, Leather, Faux Leather and Basket Weave. 

How To Choose The Right Upholstery Fabric?

There is a wide range of upholstery fabrics available in the market. You can choose from the fabric swatches for your sofa upholstery. But the most important thing to consider before buying the fabric is to check its durability.

How To Check The Durability Of Sofa Cover Fabric?

You can determine the durability by administering the “double rub test”. It is a back-and-forth motion process that mimics the wear and tear of someone sitting on a seat over time. The more the number of double rubs, the better quality and durability it indicates.

In addition to the “double rub test”, you should look for sofa upholstery treated for performance like stains, water or UV resistance. 

How To Determine The Fabric Colours?

Consider light, solid colours to create an airy and inviting mood, especially for your living room. Darker tones are much better to hide dirt and water. Select a bright colour or fun geometric pattern to make a statement for your bedroom furniture, especially for arm chair covers. 

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Different Upholstery Fabrics?

Fabric – Cotton 

Pros: The fabric gives a soft feeling and is resistant to fading.

Cons: The fabric catches dust and dirt and is susceptible to stains.

These kinds of fabrics are more suitable for Living rooms. 

Fabric – Cotton Velvet and Silk 

Pros: The fabric gives a vibrant feeling and is resistant to fading.

Cons: The sofa fabric material weakens if exposed to light. It also requires professional cleaning.

These kinds of fabrics are more suitable for Drawing rooms. 

Fabric – Leather

Pros: The fabric gives a comfy feeling and is highly durable. It is easy to clean and thus is perfect for armchairs.

Cons: The fabric gets wrinkles easily.

These kinds of fabrics are more suitable for Drawing rooms. 

Fabric – Linen

Pros: The fabric gives a soft feeling and is recyclable. It is also durable.

Cons: The fabric shrinks when washed in water. It also catches stains and gets wrinkles easily.

These kinds of fabrics are more suitable for Living rooms.

Also, if you have kids and pets, go for a fabric that has a hard finish and has no loopy threads in it. 

Conclusion

To save the trouble of going to the market, looking after fabric swatches and determining the right ones, you can go check out the variety of upholstery fabrics for sofa and chairs at Freedom Tree. You can also get in touch for help with upholstery at their Contact us page on the website.