Purchasing the right upholstery can make a huge difference to the look, feel and overall functionality of a room. Upholstery can be purchased locally, online or from furniture manufacturers. The type of fabric chosen should be based on function, aesthetics and durability.
Choosing the right fabric can be an overwhelming task. You want to find the fabric that will look good for years to come and that will last a while. It also has to be durable and easy to clean. There are a variety of fabrics on the market that offer varying degrees of quality.
In general, light domestic use fabrics are perfect for occasional use or low stress applications. They are made from delicate yarns and are usually dry cleaned only.
However, you should be aware that some light domestic use fabrics may not hold up well under heavy use. For example, silk is not the best choice for rocking chairs in a child's room. On the other hand, acetate is relatively durable and has a nice luster.
However, if you want to buy a fabric that's going to hold up in a pinch, look to high-quality leather upholstery. Leather is a high-quality, natural material made from cow hides. Leather is usually treated with an aniline dying process before being polished to create a sleek finish.
If you're going to spend some money on new upholstery for your furniture, the best bet is to visit your local furniture retailer. They may represent several different furniture manufacturers, making it easy to get a good deal.
A "good" fabric is a tough one to judge, but the best ones will last a long time. You will also want to consider your lifestyle, especially if your furniture will be used by children. If you have children, then you want to make sure the fabric is tough enough to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Another fabric that's worth a mention is olefin, a petroleum-based synthetic fiber that looks and feels like wool. It's not quite as durable as leather, but it's more stain resistant and water-resistant. Unlike leather, it's also easy to clean and pet friendly. This makes it perfect for busy households and households with pets. However, you may want to avoid it for pet owners.
On the other hand, a well-made leather seat can last a lifetime, making it a good choice for a high-traffic area. The best leather for upholstery is usually the outer layer of a cowhide.
The other aforementioned item is the "double rub" test. Basically, a double rub test uses a mechanical arm to abrade the fabric. This test is a good way to tell if the fabric has the longevity to last a long time. The test is also a good way to tell if the material is worth the money.
However, the best way to determine what type of fabric you need is to measure your furniture. For example, if you have a large piece of furniture such as a couch, you may want to go with a fabric that is neutral in color. This way, the piece can complement the rest of your decor. However, if you have a smaller piece, then you can opt for a bolder color or pattern.
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