TEXTILE MATERIALS
The Most Common Upholstery Fabric Materials and Textile Abbreviations
When choosing an upholstery fabric—for example, for a sofa, armchair, or public space furniture—the material you select affects not only the look and feel but also the durability. The range of fabric materials is broad, and product cards or fabric samples often contain textile industry abbreviations that may seem confusing. In this blog, we explain the most common upholstery materials and key abbreviations to help you make more informed and confident choices.
Most Common Upholstery Materials
Cotton (CO)
A natural fiber that is breathable and comfortable against the skin. Often blended with other fibers to improve durability. Tends to wrinkle and absorb dirt unless treated.
Linen (LI)
Another natural fiber valued for its rustic texture and eco-friendliness. Breathable but prone to wrinkling. Linen fabrics develop a beautiful patina over time.
Wool (WO)
A warm, durable, and naturally dirt-resistant fiber. Often blended with synthetics for easier maintenance and cost-efficiency. An excellent choice for high-quality, long-lasting upholstery.
Polyester (PES)
One of the most common synthetic fibers. Durable, easy to maintain, and colorfast. Often used in blends to provide flexibility, wear resistance, and ease of cleaning.
Polyamide (PA) / Nylon
A very durable and elastic fiber. Commonly used in high-wear applications, such as public space furnishings.
Acrylic (PAN)
A soft synthetic fiber resembling wool. Weather-resistant and lightweight. Frequently used in outdoor furniture and soft interior fabrics.
Viscose (CV / VI)
A regenerated fiber made from wood pulp. Feels soft and silky. Enhances the appearance and texture of blends but may be more sensitive to moisture and wear.
Common Textile Industry Abbreviations
Product labels or fabric swatches often use abbreviations to quickly indicate the materials used. Here are the most important ones:
Abbreviation - Material
CO - Cotton
LI - Linen
WO - Wool
PES - Polyester
PA - Polyamide
PAN - Acrylic
CV - Viscose
VI - Viscose
EL Elastane
Materials are often listed in percentages, for example:
70% PES / 30% CO means the fabric contains 70% polyester and 30% cotton.