Today, I’m excited to guide you through the process of choosing the perfect upholstery fabric for your furniture. Whether you’re looking to refresh a beloved piece or planning a new project, selecting the right fabric is crucial for both aesthetics and durability.

Understand Your Needs

The first step in choosing the right upholstery fabric is understanding the specific needs of your project. Consider where the furniture will be used and how much wear and tear it will endure. For example, a family sofa in the living room will require a different fabric compared to a decorative chair in the guest room.

1. High-Traffic Areas: For pieces that will see a lot of use, like family room sofas or dining chairs, look for durable fabrics like microfiber, canvas, or denim. These fabrics are known for their strength and resistance to stains.
2. Low-Traffic Areas: For furniture in less-used rooms, you can opt for more delicate fabrics like velvet, silk, or linen. These materials add a touch of luxury but may require more careful maintenance.

Consider Fabric Durability

Durability is key when it comes to upholstery fabrics. The durability of a fabric is often measured by the “double rub” count, which indicates how many times the fabric can be rubbed before showing signs of wear. Here’s a quick guide:

• 15,000 Double Rubs: Suitable for light use, ideal for decorative furniture.
• 15,000 – 30,000 Double Rubs: Suitable for everyday use, great for most residential furniture.
• 30,000+ Double Rubs: Suitable for heavy use, perfect for busy households or commercial settings.

Match the Fabric to Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle plays a significant role in fabric selection. If you have kids or pets, consider fabrics that are easy to clean and resistant to spills and stains. Performance fabrics, like Sunbrella or Crypton, are designed to withstand heavy use and are often stain-resistant and easy to clean.

Think About Style and Color

The style and color of the fabric are important for achieving the desired look of your space. Here are some tips to help you choose:

• Solid Colors: Versatile and timeless, solid colors work well in almost any setting. They’re especially useful for large pieces of furniture.
• Patterns and Textures: These can add visual interest and hide stains or wear better than solid colors. Consider the scale of the pattern in relation to the size of the furniture and the room.
• Neutral Tones: Neutral colors are versatile and can easily be updated with accessories like throw pillows and blankets.
• Bold Colors: Use bold colors to make a statement or to add a pop of color to a room. Be mindful of the room’s overall color scheme to ensure harmony.

Test the Fabric

Before making a final decision, it’s always a good idea to test the fabric. At Bailey’s Fabric & Supply, we offer up to five free samples, so you can see and feel the fabric in your home environment. Place the samples on your furniture and observe how they look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.

Consider Maintenance

Different fabrics require different levels of care. Make sure to choose a fabric that fits your lifestyle and your willingness to maintain it. For example, while silk and velvet are luxurious, they can be more challenging to clean. On the other hand, synthetic blends and treated fabrics are generally easier to maintain.

Conclusion

Choosing the right upholstery fabric is a balance between practicality and personal style. By considering factors like durability, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences, you can find the perfect fabric to enhance your furniture and your home. At Bailey’s Fabric & Supply, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Visit our website or stop by our Tucson location to explore our extensive selection of fabrics and get expert advice for your next project.

Thanks for reading, and happy decorating!