It is believed that the use of upholstery fabric originated in the 17th century. At that time, it was only used as the covering of the padding and stuffing on chairs. Sometimes, such padding comprised of comforting materials, such as soft grass, feathers, sawdust and soft deer or goat hair. During the 18th and 19th centuries, artistic designs in furniture revolutionized the world and gave an impetus to the upholstery industry. Today, you not only have a vast choice in terms of the colors and patterns but also the type of upholstery fabric you want to use to cover your furniture. Make a style statement or add elegance to your rooms by choosing the right material.
Modern Choices in Upholstery Fabric
Here is a list of some of the most popular upholstery fabrics used today:
Cotton: Cotton upholstery comes in two popular forms, mixed fabric and natural fabric. Blended upholstery fabric is stronger and more durable than natural cotton. You can also opt for blended cotton with a stain resistance coating, which is best for homes with kids.
Leather: Leather is a costly material. But the biggest advantage of leather is that it is resistant to stains and easy to clean. Just a regular wipe off will keep it clean. Leather is a popular choice for high traffic areas. However, this might not be a good choice for hot weather conditions, where it can be uncomfortable to the bare skin.
Silk: This has been the material of the elite for a long time. The satin smooth feel of silk and the sheen it gives the furniture can add a sense of sophistication to any room. As it can be easily stained and torn, this fabric needs extra care. Silk is available in wide range, from different colors to different texture, and from varied fabric thickness to various finishes. With proper care you can ensure the longevity of this material.
Linen: Linen is known for its strength and hence is a durable upholstery fabric. It may shrink, wrinkle and stain easily, and therefore an extra bit of care is needed for this material. It is not preferred for regular use but can be used for special occasions. It can also be a cheaper alternative to silk.
Acrylic: This is a synthetic fiber and is meant for regular and long use. It is durable and resistant to stains, wrinkles and shrinkage. This makes the material easy to clean. It is best suited for families with children and/or pets.
Upholstery fabric not only offers greater comfort but also increases the beauty of the space. Make sure you pick high quality materials to enjoy their benefits for a longer period of time.
If you are looking for high quality upholstery fabric from a trusted source, look no further than Wolf Gordon. This online retailer has an extensive range of fabrics for you to choose from and is known for its quality since 1967. For more information, log on to www.wolf-gordon.com.
