Upholstery Fabric Guide Part 1

Not all fabrics are the same, therefore you need to understand the important role of the thread count and weave type in determining the durability of a fabric. The thread count relates to the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch of fabric. The higher the thread count indicates that the fabric is tightly woven and will be durable. For upholstery fabric a thread count higher than 300 is recommended.

The weave of the fabric also determines durability and cost. The weave on a loom is made up of the warp which is the long vertical strands and the weft the short horizontal strands. They determine the type of weave of the fabric. The most basic weave pattern is the plain weave where the warp and weft are the same weight and number. There are many different styles of weaves which are used to make different fabrics, textures and finishes. Common upholstery weaves are basket, jacquard, ribbed, twill and satin.

The style and location of the furniture piece being upholstered will determine the type of fabric used. For daily use or high traffic areas a durable tightly woven fabric is recommended. If the use is moderate a lower thread count will suffice. For recliners because of the movement that occurs during its use a durable fabric is best.

Fabric types There are two types of fabrics: natural fibre and synthetic. Natural fibre fabrics are softer and normally constructed with flat weaves however, they can fade in sunlight and are susceptible to piling. Synthetic fabrics are made from chemical extrusions which are formed into fibre strands. They are generally strong, fade and stain resistant, but can also form piles.

Natural Fibre Fabrics

Linen: Made from the flax plant. It does not hold up to heavy wear, wrinkles easily and resists piling and fading.

Cotton: A natural fibre made from the cotton plant that wears well, resistant to fading and piling. It is very versatile and the strongest of the natural fibres.

Wool: Made from animal hair, it is resistant to fading and soils and also wears well. It is used with synthetic fibres to create several blends.

Silk: Made from the cocoon of the silk worm, it is delicate and suited for formal less trafficked areas.

Mohair: Made from the hair of the Angora goat. Very durable.

Leather: Made from cow hide it can withstand heavy wear.

Available as top grain leather and split leather.

When they have been sanded and brushed they are referred to as Nubuck leather and Suede respectively.

Synthetic Fibres

Acrylic: The texture mimics that of wool, it is colourfast, resistant to stain and it is durable

Rayon: Made from wood pulp and has a similar sheen as silk.

Polyester: Very durable, stain resistant but hard to clean.

Nylon: It is stain resistant and durable but because it is constructed as a continuous filament it cannot breathe. It is usually blended with other fibres.

Olefin: Durable but lacks style.