What is the best fabric for upholstery?
Natural fibres such as wool and linen offer strength, resilience and lasting comfort, making them exceptionally well suited to upholstery. It is recommended that you chose the upholstery fabric that best suits how the finished piece will be used. For high use furniture chose a fabric that is highly durable and has a high Martindale rub count. For light use pieces you can choose fabrics with a lower rub count.
What is the most durable fabric for upholstery?
Upholstery fabrics must be strong, stable and resistant to wear. Look out for the Martindale rub count when selecting fabrics for upholstery. The higher the number the more durable the fabric is for upholstery.
How many rubs does upholstery fabric need and what is the Martindale test?
The Martindale rub count measures a fabric's durability and abrasion resistance by simulating natural wear with a machine, where a higher score indicates greater longevity. We recommend using this guide when selecting fabric for your upholstery projects.
50,000 plus - Severe Contract / Commercial - Suitable for severe commercial setting including very high traffic areas in hotels and public places
30,000 - 50,000 - Contract / Commercial - Suitable for commercial settings like hotels and high-traffic public spaces.
25,000 - 30,000 - Heavy Domestic - Suitable for places in the home where furniture will be heavily used.
15,000 - 25,000 - General Domestic - For general household furniture that will be used regularly.
10,000 - 15,000 - Light Domestic - For occasional use furniture
Under 10,000 - Decorative - For light use only: cushions, accent or decorative pieces
Does upholstery fabric need to be fire retardant?
Fire retardant requirements for upholstery fabrics depend on their intended use and location. In residential settings, regulations are generally less stringent, while commercial and contract environments often require fabrics to meet specific fire safety standards. Many natural fibres, such as wool, have inherent flame-resistant properties. Where additional protection is required, interlining, treatments or backings can be applied to meet compliance standards.
How much fabric do I need for upholstery?
The amount of fabric required for upholstery depends on the type and size of the furniture, as well as the design and pattern of the fabric. Larger pieces such as sofas require significantly more fabric than chairs, and patterned fabrics may need additional allowance for matching repeats. As a guide, it is best to consult an upholsterer or use detailed measurements to ensure accurate quantities.
How wide is upholstery fabric?
Upholstery fabric widths vary depending on the design and fibre, but most standard fabrics are between 130cm and 150cm wide. The exact width of each fabric is specified on the product page to support accurate planning and cutting.
Is upholstery fabric available by the metre, and can I order samples?
Upholstery fabrics are available by the metre, allowing flexibility across a wide range of projects. Samples can also be ordered to experience the texture, weight and colour before specifying.
