A beginner’s guide to upholstery - what is It, and how do I choose the best fabric for my furniture?

1. What Is upholstery?

Upholstery is the process of covering furniture, such as chairs, sofas, and ottomans, with materials such as padding, webbing, fabric, springs or leather to create a comfortable and overall aesthetically pleasing surface for sitting or reclining. Upholstery can also be viewed as the materials involved in the covering of furniture. The practice of upholstery began sometime in the Middle Ages and saw a surge in popularity during the periods between the 17th and 19th centuries. The chosen material determines the visual impact of the upholstered furniture, and while the interior materials are not visible, they deeply influence the ergonomics of the piece.

2. How to make the best upholstery fabric choice for your furniture

The first tip when shopping for upholstery fabric is this – let the practical rule over the aesthetic. While you might love how the fabric looks, say an exotic animal print, or a rich velvet, it might not be the best choice for your specific needs. Before beginning the shopping process, ask yourself, “Who will use this piece, and what exactly do I need?” For instance, a silk brocade, though lovely, might not be particularly practical in a home with pets. This will help to streamline your shopping, ensuring you only focus on fabrics that bear potential in fulfilling your needs.

Another thing to note is the fabric’s reaction to aging over time. It’s important to make an effort to ask questions about the fabric at the showroom. You could also make some personal research. Beyond this, also consider the maintenance procedures required for your options.

Now that you have a general idea of what to look out for when shopping for upholstery, let’s take a look at considerations for more specific situations.

3. Top upholstery fabric choices for homes with children and pets

It is often the case that due to the luxury associated with the upholstery fabrics for furniture in the sitting room, children in many homes are not allowed to play there. However, in recent times, there has been an increase in fabrics which give you the best of both worlds – beauty and strength. For homes with children and pets, faux suede is a good choice due to its low maintenance qualities. Slipcovered upholstery and distressed leather are also good options, as they do not react intensely to scratches and stains. It is advised to steer clear of more delicate fabrics such as silks and velvets.

4. Great upholstery fabric choices that scream luxury

If children and pets aren’t an issue for you, feel free to let loose and explore multiple options for a luxurious and exotic aesthetic. Fluffy Tibetan wool is a great place to start. It is often used with chairs, sofas, ottomans and cushions to introduce warmth, texture and comfort to the furniture. Due to the fluffy and soft nature of the wool, it’s incredibly ideal for cozy seating arrangements in living rooms, bedrooms, and even reading nooks. Some other elegant upholstery choices that exude sophistication are silk velvet, Italian leather, linen velvet, satin and embroidered silk, amongst others.

5. Tips for making the Best upholstery choice for your furniture

• While it is important to keep practicality first in mind, do not forsake style. As mentioned, upholstery affects the entire cohesion of a piece, and can tie a room together, or shake it out of balance.
• Test the comfort and the feel of upholstery fabrics by sitting on samples before making a decision. Factors to note are texture, breathability, softness, and how the fabric feels against your skin.
• Always check for allergens, especially if member of your household or people who will use the piece have specific allergies or sensitivities. It is advisable to opt for fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton and linen.
• Take into the environmental impact of different upholstery fabrics. Consider fabrics that are sourced sustainably, made using eco-friendly processes, or made from recycled materials.

Consider your budget when selecting fabrics, taking note of the cost of the fabric, as well as additional expenses for padding, labor and other materials. Fabrics of higher quality tend to be more expensive upfront, but are typically more durable, thus saving you money in the long run.

By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can make an informed decision and choose the best upholstery fabric for your furniture that meets your needs, preferences, and budget. 

If you would like to know more about the upholstery options here at Daibau.ng, feel free to reach out to us and let’s get started!