Upholstery Fabric

Upholstery is a specialised, skilled trade that entails the art of crafting and restoring furniture frames with padding, cushioning and fabric using upholstery materials. It dates back to the Middle Ages and has gained soaring popularity over the last few centuries. Upholstery can also be performed on both new and used furniture. The process of restoring old furniture is known as reupholstery and is often carried out to repair damage, enhance comfort and update style.

There are two types of upholstery fabric - natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics refer to those woven from materials found in nature including leather, cotton, wool, silk and velvet. Synthetic materials are man-made materials designed using chemical processes. They include polyester, nylon and acrylic. Heavy-weight synthetic upholstery fabrics are more durable and less expensive than natural upholstery fabrics and are perfect for those searching for high-performance materials.

Yes. Natural upholstery fabrics are renewable and sustainable since they are manufactured from natural animal and plant fibres. The process of reupholstering also has a range of environmental benefits. It requires very little energy, can be applied to the same frame multiple times and eliminates the need to dispose of old furniture in a landfill. It is also significantly less harmful to the environment than purchasing mass-produced furniture. This makes reupholstering a fantastic sustainable choice for the eco-conscious homeowner.

Many things will factor into choosing the perfect upholstery fabric. The situation of the sofa - is it in a room with lots of traffic? Checking the Martindale score of the fabric is a good indication of how it will wear. The higher the score on a fabric the more rub resistance it can take. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester are both durable and washable, making them ideal for households with children and pets. Faux leather vinyl will offer water resistance along with durability and the simplicity of being able to wipe them clean. Wool fabrics, cottons and linens are more suitable as fabric for covering sofas in areas with lower traffic. Take a look at our fabric collections across the board from premium quality wools to polyester woven fabrics, along with vinyl and velvet upholstery fabric.

Yes, upholstery fabric can usually be washed, but it's important to follow the relevant instructions and recommendations for cleaning. Different fabrics have different care requirements, such as specific washing temperatures or dry cleaning methods. To ensure the longevity of your upholstery fabric, it's advisable to test a small, not easily seen area first before starting with a full wash. If in doubt, consulting a professional cleaner or upholstery expert would be a wise choice.

While it is possible to paint upholstery fabric, it is essential to approach this task with caution. Not all fabrics are suitable for painting, and the success of the project largely depends on the fabric type and condition. It's best to use fabric-specific paints and primers that are designed for upholstery applications. Proper preparation, such as cleaning the fabric thoroughly and ensuring it is free of any oils or stains, is crucial for achieving satisfactory results. Additionally, it is advisable to test the paint on a small, not easily seen area before painting the entire piece of furniture.

Herringbone furniture fabric refers to a popular pattern often used in upholstery. It features a distinctive zigzag or V-shaped design resembling the skeleton of a herring fish. This pattern is created by weaving the fabric using a twill technique. Herringbone fabric is known for its timeless appeal and versatility, making it suitable for various furniture styles, including sofas, chairs, and cushions. The pattern adds visual interest and texture to the furniture piece, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a classic and sophisticated look.