When selecting fabric for furniture upholstery, there are three essential considerations: durability, style and pattern.
Durability is critical when the fabric will be subject to heavy usage. A higher Martindale rating indicates greater durability and extended service life.
Durability
When furnishing a new home or renovating an existing space, durability of upholstery is paramount. Not only does this allow furniture to withstand intense use but it also maintains its luxurious aesthetic without needing frequent upkeep.
Fabric abrasion resistance is critical for fabric longevity. It’s like when you sit and get up from a chair, or your jeans rub across the surface when worn.
Upholstery fabric is tested for abrasion resistance using the Wyzenbeek method, which involves repeatedly rubbing it back and forth until two yarn breaks occur.
Higher double rub counts indicate greater abrasion resistance, translating to improved commercial upholstery durability. Fabrics with a double rub count of 15,000 or higher are ideal for most rooms.
Style
Style can be an important factor when selecting upholstery for your room. It can range from subtle and sophisticated to bold and playful, depending on the overall aesthetic and atmosphere.
Your style should guide the fabric selection for upholstery, as well as its texture and pattern. For instance, if you want your living room to exude tranquility and warmth, opt for soft textures that invite in light.
Another consideration should be durability and stain resistance, particularly if you have young children or pets who will be playing on the furniture.
Durability can be enhanced with higher thread counts and tighter weaves, providing your upholstery with enough resilience to withstand daily use without losing its aesthetic appeal.
Pattern
Upholstery fabric plays a significant role in the appearance and feel of furniture pieces. It can make or break the room’s overall aesthetic, so make sure you select fabric that complements your existing decor while adding visual interest to your space.
Pattern is an excellent way to add visual interest and give your upholstery a unified aesthetic. From stripes to florals, patterns can tie together the entire room.
When selecting a pattern for your furniture, it’s essential to take into account its shape. Curved pieces require extra precision when upholstering as fabric may not fit perfectly.
Selecting upholstery for your furniture can be a challenge, so it’s best to have an idea of the fabric type before visiting a furniture store. Whether it’s for a sofa that will get regular use or just something decorative, there is a wide range of fabrics available to meet both your needs and aesthetic preferences.
Color
Upholstery color plays a significant role in the aesthetic and tactile quality of your furniture, according to The Decorologist. It sets the atmosphere for any room, altering how people perceive it, and can even influence how people behave within it.
Upholstery refers to fabric-covered sofas, chairs and cushions that add a cozy atmosphere to your home. Picking out colors carefully can help you achieve an aesthetic as well as functional design in one space.
Additionally, the fabric you select can influence your upholstery’s durability and upkeep requirements. For instance, outdoor fabrics with colors that won’t fade easily are ideal for patio or deck use.
A creative crafter can transform an otherwise boring piece of upholstery into a stunning statement piece with some paint and brush work. Be sure to use a textile medium for painting, following its application instructions carefully. Finally, rub firmly into the fabric to dislodge any excess paint before applying additional thin coats of upholstery paint – typically taking around 24 hours).