Upholstery fibers not only determine how a fabric will look and feel, but also how it will wear,how care-intensive it will be, and the cleaning methods you’ll have to employ.
In short, fabric is one of the most important factors in how any upholstered furniture will look and wear. It is also a major deciding factor when you buy furniture. Here is a guide to different fibers so that you can find a good match for your needs.
When creating a fabric, manufacturers often blend fibers together, because blending fibers produces more interesting textures and colors. Blending fibers can also make a fabric more supple, and better able to withstand every day wear and tear.
Considerations for Fabric Shopping:
- Appropriateness to lifestyle.
- Resistance to stains, soil, abrasion and sunlight.
- Care and maintenance.
- How long it can be expected to last.
Basic Fiber Categories:
- Natural fibers, which can be cellulose, or plant based fibers, and protein, or animal fibers.
- Synthetic, or man-made fibers.
