How to Choose Upholstery Fabric
Start with the project and how the furniture will be used. A colour you like is a starting point; the product data and a physical sample help you make the final choice.
Describe the job
Write down the furniture type, where it will stand, who will use it and the look you want. A decorative cushion and a frequently used chair can have different requirements. Give this brief to your upholsterer before choosing a collection.
Compare the available information
Read the composition, width, backing and any published performance information on the product page. Where abrasion or fire test results are listed, record the test method as well as the result. A missing specification is a question to ask, rather than a reason to assume the material meets your requirements.
Use the right material family
Compare upholstery fabrics and suede for the feel and texture you want. Faux leather and quilted materials have their own constructions and should be evaluated separately. For marine, outdoor or automotive work, confirm the individual collection’s suitability for that application. A category name alone does not replace a project specification.
Order a sample before the full cut
Choose an A5 sample for €1 plus delivery. View it alongside the room’s existing materials and in the lighting in which it will be used. Check the colour, texture and how it feels. A small sample helps with these choices but does not establish a collection’s long-term performance.
Confirm the practical details
Before ordering metres, agree the required quantity and cutting plan with your upholsterer. Check the confirmed product width, colour code, pattern direction and whether the planned seams work with your furniture. Keep the sample and collection details together so the order can be checked.