UPHOLSTERY FABRICS

Choosing Upholstery Fabric – What You Should Know

Upholstery fabric is a key element in both the functionality and look of a piece of furniture – the right fabric adds durability, comfort, and style to your home or public space. Whether you're choosing fabric for a sofa, an armchair, or other interior purposes, it's worth taking the time to make the right choice. Here are a few essential points to help you find the perfect upholstery fabric.

1. The Purpose of the Upholstery Fabric Matters

Start by considering how the fabric will be used. Different environments demand different qualities – for example, fabric for hotel use or public spaces is subject to constant wear and tear and requires high durability and often fire safety. For home use, fabric for an armchair or living room décor can be a bit softer and cozier.

2. Durability of Upholstery Fabric – Check the Martindale Score

The fabric's abrasion resistance is typically indicated by its Martindale value. The higher the number, the more durable the fabric. For home use, a Martindale rating of at least 15,000 is recommended, while fabric for hotels or office furniture should have a score of 30,000 or more. If you're looking for especially durable fabric, be sure to ask your supplier or upholsterer for more details.

3. Fabric Materials – Natural or Synthetic?

Natural materials like wool breathe well and add softness and a natural feel to the interior. Wool fabric is a warm and high-quality choice that stands the test of time – and looks good year after year. Synthetic fibers like polyester, on the other hand, improve durability and make cleaning easier.

Many upholstery fabrics are blends, combining the comfort of natural fibers with the durability of synthetic ones.

Cotton is a breathable and pleasant fabric, but it tends to be less durable and harder to clean than wool or synthetic options.

4. Care and Maintenance

A fabric sofa, for instance, is exposed to everyday wear – so it’s a good idea to choose a material that’s easy to clean. Check the care instructions: is the fabric washable, does it require dry cleaning, or are the covers removable? For fixed upholstery, wool blends and synthetic fabrics tend to stay clean the longest.

5. Appearance and Feel

Visual appeal is also important when choosing interior fabrics. The texture, color, and pattern of the fabric influence the atmosphere a piece of furniture creates. Always test the fabric in natural light and feel it with your hands – what kind of vibe does it give?

We always recommend ordering a fabric sample before making a final choice. The easiest way is through our online shop – we’ll send a sample directly to your home by post.

6. Responsibility and Domestic Production

Choosing upholstery fabric that is domestically and responsibly produced supports sustainability and offers quality you can trust. For example, Annala’s fabrics are designed and woven in Finland, and are known for their durability and timeless design.

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Summary:
Whether you’re looking for upholstery fabric, interior fabric, or flame-retardant material for a specific project, the most important thing is to choose a high-quality fabric suited to both the purpose and your style. A well-chosen upholstery fabric stands the test of time – and turns heads.

Explore our selection and find a fabric that makes your furniture unique and long-lasting.

All Annala upholstery fabrics available here

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