The padded covering for a piece of furniture is called upholstery fabric. The webbing, springs, and stuffing that is used to make chairs, sofas, and other cushioned items are referred to as “upholstery.” Therefore, in a nutshell, upholstery fabric is the material that is utilized to cover soft furniture. The fabric adds a decorative touch while concealing the stuffing and holding everything in place.
Soft furnishings versus upholstery fabric
It is not to be confused with “soft furnishings,” which are typically curtains and cushions in interior design jargon. Upholstered furniture has been a popular feature of homes for centuries and continues to be so today.
Since the middle ages, skill has been valued, and a skilled upholsterer can transform a piece of furniture. Upholstered furniture allows you to change the look of your room while also providing comfort and ease.
What’s different about upholstery fabric?
The problem with upholstery fabric is that it must be durable. Consider how frequently someone will lounge on that sofa or sit in that chair in front of the television. Imagine your young children climbing over the chairs’ arms and engaging in pillow fights with the cushions. Additionally, consider the muddy dog looking for a warm spot to curl up in after a long walk.
Upholstery fabric has a pile or flat weave and is heavyweight to withstand daily use. Instead of dyed-in patterns, it typically has woven patterns. Because they aren’t supple or soft enough, thick upholstery fabrics aren’t good for bedding or clothing. The “double rub” rating of fabric can indicate its durability. By moving a mechanical arm back and forth over the fabric surface, this measurement simulates the wear and tear of sitting on a piece of furniture. The number indicates the number of rubbings the fabric endured before becoming damaged or marked. The material is more durable the higher the “double rub.”
What to look for purchasing upholstery fabric
You need a fabric that is not only long-lasting but also simple to clean for heavy-use items like the family sofa. Consider this when selecting upholstery fabrics if stains and dirt are likely to be a problem because machine washing is simpler and less expensive than dry cleaning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting an upholstery fabric, take into account the amount of wear and tear your furniture must endure. Order samples of various materials to determine whether or not they complement your home’s decor and how they feel to the touch. Durability will be significantly influenced by quality. When you can touch the fabric, this is easier to see. Think about how your chosen fabric will look five years from now. When using fabric for upholstery, where the furniture is the focal point of the room, understanding how it ages is crucial.
