When it comes to furnishing your home, the options can seem endless. And once you've made a decision, there's another choice to make: what kind of fabric should you cover your furniture with? Here are some tips on how to choose upholstery fabric for your furniture.
Consider Fabric Durability
When choosing upholstery fabric, durability is among the most important factors to consider. Upholstery fabric is subjected to a lot of wear and tear, so it's important to choose a fabric that can stand up to everyday use.
There are a few different ways to test fabric durability. The Martindale rub test is a common method of testing upholstery fabric durability. This test measures the number of double rubs a fabric can withstand before showing signs of wear. The higher the number, the more durable the fabric.
Another way to test durability is to look for upholstery fabrics that are treated with stain repellents or have been pre-shrunk. These treatments will help the fabric withstand spills and stains, and pre-shrinking ensures that the fabric won't shrink when cleaned.
Finally, pay attention to the weave of the fabric. Some upholstery fabrics have a loose weave that can snag easily, while others have a tighter weave that's more resistant to wear and tear.
Think About Maintenance
When choosing upholstery fabric for your furniture, it's important to consider how easy the fabric will be to maintain. After all, even the most beautiful fabric will look dull and dingy if it's not properly cared for.
Depending on the fabric, you may need to vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt or spot-clean spills as they happen. Some fabrics are also more susceptible to staining than others, so if you have young children or pets, you'll want to choose a fabric that resists stains.
If you're unsure how easy a particular fabric will be to maintain, always consult a professional for care and cleaning instructions. They should be able to tell you how often the fabric needs to be vacuumed or cleaned and what kind of cleaners and treatments you'll need to use.
Taking the time to think about maintenance before you make your purchase will help you choose a fabric that will look great for years to come.
Select a Style
The upholstery fabric you select for your furniture should be in keeping with the style of the piece. A traditional sofa will look out of place with a funky, modern print. You might want to consider a complementary fabric for your traditional furniture, something that will still allow the piece to retain its original character while adding your own personal flair.
For instance, a damask fabric in a bold colour would be a beautiful choice for a traditional sofa. Similarly, a modern sofa could be given a new lease on life with a geometric print upholstery fabric. When in doubt, choose a solid upholstery fabric in a neutral colour. You can always add pattern and interest with throw pillows, blankets and other accessories.
