Learn how to choose the best upholstery fabric for your home with our expert tips. Discover what makes a fabric durable, luxurious, and perfect for furniture.
Choosing the right upholstery fabric is crucial for both comfort and style. Whether you’re furnishing a sofa, chair, or cushions, high-quality fabrics ensure durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. In this guide, we’ll show you how to identify fabrics that will elevate your interiors and last for years.
Natural fibers: Cotton, linen, wool, and silk are luxurious and breathable. Silk adds shine and elegance; wool is durable and warm.
Synthetic fibers: Polyester, acrylic, and nylon often enhance durability and stain resistance. Blends can combine the best of both worlds.
Tip: Look for fabrics with a higher thread count and tightly woven fibers—they’re usually stronger and feel more luxurious.
Tight weave: Fabrics with tight, dense weaves resist wear and tear better than loosely woven fabrics.
Types of weave: Twill, satin, velvet, and jacquard each offer a unique look and texture.
Test durability: Rub the fabric lightly; high-quality fabric shouldn’t pill or snag easily.
Color consistency: High-quality fabrics maintain color even after sunlight exposure or cleaning.
Print precision: In designer fabrics, patterns should align perfectly, especially on repeat prints. Misalignment can indicate lower-quality production.
Weight: Heavier fabrics are generally more durable and ideal for upholstery.
Hand: The way a fabric feels—smooth, soft, or luxurious—can signal quality craftsmanship.
Pull gently: High-quality fabrics should return to shape without sagging.
Elasticity matters: Fabrics that stretch too easily may wear out faster on high-use furniture.
Luxury fabrics often require professional cleaning, but high-quality synthetics can be easier to maintain.
Look for fabrics with stain-resistant finishes or blends that combine luxury with practicality.
Established fabric houses, like Quadrille Fabrics, invest in quality materials, craftsmanship, and design longevity.
Designer collections often come with care instructions and warranties—signs of reliability.
Identifying high-quality upholstery fabric is a mix of understanding materials, feeling the fabric, and knowing what to look for in weave, durability, and design. By choosing fabrics carefully, you’ll ensure your furniture remains stylish, comfortable, and long-lasting for years.