"Upholstered furniture" refers to furniture pieces like chairs, sofas, armchairs, stools, and beds that are covered with fabric, leather, padding, or other materials. Thanks to the variety in upholstery materials and patterns, furniture can be designed and styled in countless ways, offering a wide range of options for consumers. Let 𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗜𝗥𝗘 guide you through different types of upholstery fabrics to help you find the perfect match for your furniture.
1. Corduroy
Corduroy fabric is made from twisted fibers woven into parallel ridges, often called "wales." It first gained popularity in 18th-century France, where it was woven from silk and used for royal uniforms. By the 1800s, it was being mass-produced in Europe using cotton, becoming a staple among the working class.
Corduroy Fabric
One of the biggest advantages of corduroy is its durability. This tough and sturdy fabric can withstand heavy use, making it an excellent choice for families with kids and pets. Additionally, corduroy is easy to clean with a damp cloth or fabric care kit.
Woolly Sofa upholstered in cream corduroy fabric.
2. Bouclé
Named after the French word for “curly,” bouclé fabric is made from looped yarns, giving it a soft and cozy texture. Its unique texture makes it especially suitable for accent chairs and curved frames.
Bouclé Fabric
According to James Barker, CEO of Barker and Stonehouse, bouclé is currently in high demand due to its beauty and quality. This fabric offers a minimalist and chic appearance that fits various design styles.
Additionally, bouclé is durable, resilient, and easy to clean thanks to its low absorption rate. However, it may not be the best choice for homes with pets or young children.
The Ellipse Sofa upholstered in white boucle fabric
3. Chenille
Chenille, named after the French word for “caterpillar,” refers to both the fabric and the yarn. First produced in France using the leno weaving method, chenille is made by twisting two warp threads around a weft thread, giving it a fuzzy texturereminiscent of a caterpillar.
Chenille Upholstery Fabric
Chenille can be woven from various fibers, including cotton, silk, wool, and rayon. Despite being a relatively late invention, chenille is highly popular in both fashion and home decor for its soft, durable, and easy-to-clean properties.
Chenille’s subtle sheen makes it versatile and suitable for many design styles. However, it is delicate and prone to damage from sharp objects, so care is needed, including hand washing when necessary.
Nerissa Sofa upholstered in blue chenille fabric
4. Velvet
Velvet is a luxurious and soft fabric that has been woven since the Middle Ages. The term “velvet” refers to the weaving technique rather than the material itself, meaning velvet can be made from any fiber. Traditionally made from silk and reserved for royalty, modern production methods have made velvet more affordable.
Velvet Upholstery Fabric
According to architect Karen Rohr, velvet remains a popular upholstery choice despite its drawbacks due to its luxurious and comfortable feel. Additionally, velvet has natural water resistance and is easy to clean.
The Noe Armchair upholstered in gray velvet fabric
That said, velvet is not ideal for warm and humid climates, as it lacks breathability.
5. Leather
Leather, crafted through the tanning of animal hides, is a durable and versatile material. Its use dates back to prehistoric times when humans used hides for clothing and shelter. Today, leather is a staple in fashion and upholstery.
Various types of leather for sofa and furniture upholstery
Leather works well with almost any style—from modern to classic. It is loved for its easy maintenance, durability, and the way it ages beautifully over time.
Popular Types of Upholstery Leather:
- Full Grain Leather: The highest-quality leather with a natural, unpolished surface that develops a protective patina over time, making it more beautiful with age.
- Top Grain Leather: More common and thinner than full-grain, it has a refined finish for uniformity and added stain resistance.
- Genuine Leather: Made from leftover leather pieces, this is a more affordable and widely available option.
- Corrected Grain Leather: Treated to enhance its appearance and functionality, it is often dyed and finished for aesthetic appeal and versatility.
The Walnut Brown Sofa features upholstered interior leather
To meet consumer demands and reduce costs, synthetic and faux leathers like PU, PVC, and microfiber leather have emerged:
- Faux Leather: Includes PU and PVC leather, made from recycled leather and fabric scraps coated with plastic. These are durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean.
- Microfiber Leather: High-quality synthetic leather that closely mimics real leather. It is durable, lightweight, and affordable, though less breathable than natural leather.
Stay tuned for Part 2 as we continue exploring the fascinating world of upholstery fabrics!