Pick The Perfect Upholstery Fabric for You
Should you choose a patterned polyester? Or a solid leather? When deciding on upholstery fabric the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and desires. However, to offer some guidance: velour offers a soft and elegant feel, creating a striking contrast when paired with an industrial aesthetic. On the other hand, a printed fabric tends to carry a playful vibe, while a plain fabric leans towards a brighter appearance. Leon’s Fabrics goes over the types of upholstery fabrics available at our wholesale fabric store in Georgia.
Types of Upholstery Fabrics
Velvet
Velvet is a luxurious and elegant upholstery fabric known for its soft and smooth texture. It is typically made from a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, with the pile (the raised surface) creating a dense and plush feel. Velvets can be made from materials like silk, cotton, rayon, and polyester. They come in a variety of colors and are popular for adding a touch of sophistication to furniture and home decor. Velvet can show wear and may develop a “crushed” appearance in high-traffic areas over time. With this being said, many advancements have been made in how they produce velvets. Low pile velvets and performance velvets are far less prone to “crushing”.
Chenille
Chenille is a fabric characterized by its velvety, textured surface created by a pile of raised loops. It is typically made from cotton, though synthetic fibers like polyester are also used. Chenille is soft and cozy, making it a popular choice for upholstery, especially on sofas and armchairs. It’s known for its durability and resistance to abrasion, making it suitable for everyday use.
Tapestries
Tapestry upholstery fabric is often woven with intricate patterns, designs, or scenes. It is more decorative in nature and adds a sense of artistry to furniture. Tapestries can be made from various materials, including wool, cotton, or a blend of fibers. They are often used for accent chairs, cushions, and curtains. The designs can vary widely, from traditional and historical themes to modern and abstract patterns.
Denim
Denim upholstery fabric is made from the same rugged material used to create jeans. It is typically a heavyweight cotton twill fabric known for its durability and casual appearance. Denim is tough and sturdy but can start to show signs of aging with heavy use. If properly taken care of it can age beautifully, giving a distinctive and character-rich appearance over time. While it may not have the softness of velvet or chenille, it offers a more rugged and rustic aesthetic.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a synthetic upholstery material made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or similar compounds. It is designed to mimic the look and feel of leather. Many vinyls produced now can even fool the trained into thinking it’s leather. Vinyl upholstery is known for its easy maintenance, water resistance, and affordability. It is often used in residential, commercial, automotive, and marine settings, where durability and ease of cleaning are essential. While it may lack the natural texture of leather, it is a practical choice for specific applications.
Leather
Leathers are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability, ensuring that your furniture stands the test of time. What sets leather apart is its ability to age gracefully, growing more beautiful with use. Genuine leather possesses the unique quality of stretching slightly over time, giving your furniture a comfortably worn-in and aesthetically appealing look. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, leather is timeless, effortlessly blending with various interior styles and always staying in vogue.
Let Our Store Help You Decide Which Upholstery Fabric to Choose
Are you looking for upholstery fabric for furniture for your living room, car, or restaurant seating? If you’re stumped on which material to go with, we can offer you our expert advice. Just ask our wholesale fabric store in Georgia! Contact us today.
