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LEATHER &
LEATHER
FURNITURE

Choosing the

Perfect Upholstery

Fabric: A Guide

by Stuart Graham Fabrics

electing the right upholstery fabric
can transform a room, combining
Sboth aesthetics and functionality.
With so many options available, the
process can feel overwhelming, but with
careful consideration, you can make the
best choice for your space. Here’s a guide
to help you choose upholstery fabric that
suits your style, lifestyle, and needs.

1. Consider Your Lifestyle 3. Colour and Pattern Selection 5. Maintenance
One of the most important factors The colour of your upholstery fabric Finally, consider how much
in choosing upholstery fabric is will significantly affect the mood of your maintenance your upholstery fabric will
understanding how your furniture will room. Neutral tones like beige, grey, require. Some fabrics, like leather, are easy
be used. Is the piece in a high-traffic and taupe are versatile and easy to style, to wipe clean, while others, like linen, may
area, such as a living room, or a more while bold colours or patterns can make a require more care. Look for fabrics with
formal setting like a guest room? If you statement. If your furniture will see a lot of stain-resistant technology, like our Quick
have children or pets, durability, stain use, consider darker or patterned fabrics Clean and FibreGuard collections which
resistance and environmental safety that can better hide stains and wear. make stains easier to manage. Also look
become crucial. Choose fabrics that Additionally, always think about light for fabrics with water or liquid repellency,
carry the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 label exposure - sunlight can fade colours over like our Mercis collections.
to ensure your fabrics do not contain any time. Fabrics like acrylic and polyester are
harmful substances.
more resistant to UV rays, making them a Conclusion
good option for sunny rooms. Choosing the perfect upholstery fabric
• High-traffic areas: Opt for fabrics requires a balance of style, durability,
like polyester blends, leather, or 4. Texture and Feel practicality and personal choice. Consider
microfiber, which are durable and The texture of your upholstery fabric your lifestyle, the room’s usage, and how
easy to clean. should complement the overall design of much care you’re willing to invest. With
• Formal spaces: You can be more your space. Smooth fabrics like cotton the right fabric, you’ll not only enhance
adventurous with fabrics like velvet or linen offer a crisp, clean look, while the beauty of your space but also ensure
or chenille that offer a luxurious feel.
textured options like tweed or bouclé long-lasting comfort. dw
can add depth and character. Velvet or
2. Durability Matters chenille bring a sense of luxury. www.stuartgraham.co.za
When it comes to upholstery, durability
is key. For pieces in heavy-use areas, like
family room sofas, choose fabrics with
higher rub counts (typically over 15,000).

• Natural fibres: Cotton, linen, and
wool can be strong but may wear out
more quickly unless blended with
synthetic fibres for added durability.
• Synthetic fibres: Polyester, nylon,
and acrylic are known for their
strength and stain resistance, making
them excellent choices for everyday
furniture.

42 Issue 287 • dw