Natural & Manmade fabrics

Upholstery fabric is fabric or textiles used for furniture. Upholstery is the physical act of stuffing seats and
furniture with webbing, padding, springs, foam, or cushions to furniture and covering it with upholstery
fabric. This type of work is very niche and needs to be done by a professional. The problem when it comes
to upholstery fabric is what upholstery fabric is the best for my furniture.
The process began in the Middle Ages and grew in popularity during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
Over the years, a wide variety of materials have been used, from hay to horsehair to wool. Modern
upholstered items use metal springs and foam for greater durability. While the interior materials may not
be visible, they make a big difference in whether the piece is comfortable. And though fabric can always be
changed—and may need to be, depending on wear and tear—choosing high-quality inner layers will help
make sure the piece will last for years to come.
Natural fibres are fibres made by nature. Typical examples are cotton and wool, which are mainly used in
textile clothing but there are many often natural fibres produced in smaller quantities such as e.g. silk, flax
or hemp.
Man-made fibres (MMF) are fibres made by man. MMF can be organic or inorganic. Organic MMF can be
made from natural materials like wood, or are made from synthetic polymers.

How to Choose the Best Upholstery Fabric ?

First, consider how you live and who will use the piece,” This will help guide you on the type of material to
choose.” You may love the look of that silk velvet, but it will quickly get destroyed in a house with kids
or pets. Pieces in high-traffic areas, such as family or living rooms, will need durable fabrics, while furniture
that doesn't get as much wear and tear, such as a bedroom settee or headboard, can sport any type of
textile.
A big mistake people make, is not considering how a fabric or leather may age over time. Check the label
and ask questions at the showroom to find out about the material’s content and cleaning needs, then think
about how much maintenance you’re prepared to do to protect your selection. “How will it look in five
years?“Will you still love the leather as it develops a nice patina from everyday living? Will you vacuum the
upholstery fabric regularly? Will you close the drapes when away or not using a room to avoid some of the
fading that naturally occurs from exposure to sunlight?”
Luckily, you will have so many
different upholstery fabrics to choose
from. You can buy them locally from
a fabric store, direct from the
upholsterer, online, catalogs, the list
goes on. You can buy direct from a
furniture manufacturer or the
upholstery manufacturing mill
themselves. In today’s market, there
are numerous ways of buying
upholstery fabric.
Upholstery Fabric is easy to come by
but making the best upholstery fabric
decision for your furniture is
sometimes a best guess situation.
Upholstery fabric can be one type of
fiber or a blend of many. It all
depends on the design and aesthetic
you are looking for in your
upholstery.
WHAT IS UPHOLSTERY FABRIC MADE OF?
Upholstery fabric can be made from any yarn or thread that is woven or knitted into a textile. Fibers such
as cotton, linen, wool, hemp, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, acrylic, and rayon are strung on looms and
woven, or knitted, into upholstery fabric. You can use one type of yarn or various combinations of yarn to
weave or knit upholstery fabric.
Upholstery fabric, once woven, is then backed with latex, glue, or other textiles to add stability to the
fabric. This helps with durability and abrasion resistance in the long term. Some upholstery fabrics are not
backed because they are woven for slipcover fabric. Without a backing, fabric can stretch and move better
than fabrics that have a backing to them. Fabrics with backing will resist stretching and slouching when
permanently upholstered to furniture.
After the upholstery fabric is woven and backed, it’s folded or rolled onto a roll. Back in the day, folding
was the original way to store fabrics. Soon after, rolling them on rolls was found to be a better process
because there was less creases when it came time to upholster the fabric on furniture. Nowadays,
upholstery fabric is still stored on rolls, or bolts, that range in the amount of yardage stored on them.
Typical rolls of fabric are 50 yards, but some companies consider a roll to be 30 yards. It all depends on the
weaver of the fabric.
CAN YOU USE UPHOLSTERY FABRIC FOR CURTAINS?
Designer curtains and drapes hang well and look polished; this is partly due to the fabric used to make
them. Many upholstery fabrics that are available in sewing and craft stores are ideal for curtains, letting
you design your own custom creations that can look just as nice. You don’t need a special set of sewing
skills to make curtains, but you do need some precision and plenty of space to work.
You can use upholstery fabric for curtains and drapery. There are a few things to consider before ordering
upholstery fabric for your next curtain or drapery project.
Fabric Choices
Upholstery fabric is heavy, which can help give curtains and draperies a more formal, tailored appearance
than lighter dressmaker fabrics. Woven cottons and cotton blends, velvets, tweeds and lightweight quilted
fabrics hang and drape well and you shouldn’t need a special heavy-duty sewing machine to sew the fabric.
If the window receives bright outdoor light, the curtains may also need a lining. Even indirect sunlight at
the window can alter the way the fabric looks in the room during the daytime. Heavy muslin is a standard
lining fabric, but you can also use blackout fabric lining to help darken a room. Blackout fabric often has a
white, rubbery or vinyl coating, so the curtains look uniform from outside the window, even if you use
different upholstery fabric in every room.
PROS OF USING UPHOLSTERY FABRIC FOR DRAPERY
 Performance fabric is great for drapery because they can be cleaned, and they repel stains
 Durable and usually has a higher double rubs score than Drapery fabric
 Variety of thicker, heavier looking fabrics for a more formal, tailored look than a thinner drapery
fabric
 Can be a non-backed upholstery fabric that is machine washable making cleaning a breeze

CONS OF USING UPHOLSTERY FABRIC FOR DRAPERY

 Upholstery fabric can be smaller width than the window you are trying to hang curtains from. Most
upholstery fabric is 54 inches to 60 inches wide. With smaller projects and windows, the upholstery
fabric shouldn’t be an issue. With larger windows, you’ll need to find an extra-wide drapery fabric.
 Upholstery fabrics could have a backing. When woven upholstery backing is made, the
manufacturers can put an acrylic, latex, or laminate backing that makes the fabric stiff. The pattern
on the front will also not be on the back. This is an issue because your drapes and curtains will be
seen from the inside of the house, and outside as well. You’ll need to choose and upholstery or
drapery fabric that does not have a backing.
Curtain Fabrics to Step up Your Living Room
When we think of curtains for the living room, patterns, designs and prints run through our heads. We also
take into account the length of the curtains. However, the curtain fabric you choose is just as important, if
not more. Every material drapes and falls differently. Moreover, each of these materials have their own
properties. Some are easy to wash while others block out sunlight completely. You need to pick a fabric
that meets your requirements and also choose a suitable curtain design to go with it.
 Colour Blocking Linens
Linen is a fabric that is very summery in its look and feel. Hence, linen curtains add a breezy vibe to your
living room. Earthy shades work best with this material, and we love the way this home has used alternate
dark and light shades of blue for a colour blocked effect.

 Brocade in Metallic Tints

As the saying goes, if you want to go bold, try gold. And glitter of gold, or any other metallic shade for that
matter, is best brought out by brocade. The material is quite heavy by itself, and thus, balances the weight
of metallic colours rather well. You can match such a type of curtain design for living room with other
metallic fixtures and richly colour upholstery for furniture.
  Thick Cotton Blinds
There is a fabulous economy of design when it comes to blinds. They are not bulky and must be made to fit
without a ruffle. Thick cotton with prints is patterns compliment this type of design. The material is not
puffy or swishy, so your blinds will stay neatly in their place.

 Silk in Indian Prints

If you are taking the traditional route while picking a
curtain design for living room, there is nothing quite
like silk. No material can match its richness, and it will
drape your windows with a delicate grace. Opt for
sophisticated ethnic prints for silk curtains to match
the touch of tradition that comes with it.
  Sheers with Patterns
Sheer curtains paired with thick ones are not a new phenomenon. However, sheers with intricate patterns
call for a trend alert. Not only do these patterned sheers look exquisite in your living room, they also create
a play of sunlight if the angle is right.

 Velvet in Rich Colours

Velvet curtains do two things for your living room; firstly, it blocks out blazing sunlight completely, and
secondly, it adds a plush look to space. And you are opting for this luxurious fabric, match it with the
upholstery of your furniture too!
 Blinds
In any home or living space, you will likely have windows in different areas of each room. But which kind
will work better for the living room, and which will be best for a bedroom? And what kind of material will
last the longest and give you what you need?
If you have been searching for blinds that will suit your windows or situation, but don’t know what types of
blinds are out there, then this guide will help you make a decision by going over the various types and
going into detail about what they are best used for.
There are many different kinds of window coverings that can be used in your home, but most companies
often use the words shades and blinds interchangeably. This is not completely correct and can be quite
confusing when you are shopping on your own.
So, what is the difference between blinds and shades?
Well, according to the Dictionary:
Blinds are a hard window covering that is made with horizontal slats that can be open or closed shut.
Shades- however, are coverings that are made up of one or more pieces of fabric.

How to Choose Blind Fabric

Cotton, linen and voile fabrics are among the most popular fabrics for roman blinds. In addition, you’ll find
less-used options like upholstery fabrics and faux leather. These aren’t as common because the thick,
heavy fabrics make it difficult for the blind to layer and create seamless pleats that are characteristic of
roman blinds. Roman blinds also often feature the addition of a blackout lining for fabrics that are thinner
or more translucent.
Different fabrics offer various benefits and drawbacks. Some are better suited to wet rooms while others
are better for temperature control. Choosing the right fabric for roman blinds means knowing what your
priorities are.
If you want blinds that are low maintenance and long-lasting, you’ll want fabrics that are hardy and
durable. If your main focus is on style, you may need to spend more time cleaning and caring for more
delicate fabric. Perhaps your main focus when it comes to window treatments is finding a fabric that blocks
out heat or light and increases privacy.

Types of Blinds
 Wooden Blind
 Roller Blind
 Roman Blind
 Vertical Blind
 Venetian Blind
1. Cotton and Cotton Blends
Manufacturers typically use medium-
weight cotton for blinds. The weight adds
durability to the blind and also decreases
maintenance associated with other blind
fabrics like silk that are more delicate.
Cotton blinds can easily be washed or
vacuumed, making them a popular choice
for people who want functionality without
high care requirements.
Cotton blends are another popular fabric
for blinds. The cotton is typically combined
with polyester, nylon or other synthetic
fabrics. That’s because these materials
offer water-resistant properties. These
materials are also fire-safe and can
prevent colour fading due to sunlight.
Cotton blend blinds are ideal for
bathrooms and kitchen windows that are
subject to water and humidity. Cotton
blinds offer a natural aesthetic, making
them ideal in boho-chic designs, cabin
decor and coastal looks.
2. Linen
Like cotton, linen is a naturally sourced fabric. Linen blinds come in neutral shades including white and
beige, making them useful in contemporary decor and beach-inspired designs. They offer an airy aesthetic
and can be used in spaces that are humid and wet. In fact, linen is naturally antimicrobial and resistant to
mould and mildew. Use these blinds in bathrooms and kitchens or even in indoor-outdoor spaces such as
conservatories, entryways and porches.

Linen fabrics feature a loose weave so they are well-ventilated and ideal for letting light filter through the
fabric into the room. Because of this, they’re not ideal if you’re looking for thermal blinds. However,
they're a great choice for people who want blinds that let air move through the room and brighten up a
home.
In addition, linen roman blinds don’t pill and they are incredibly durable. They’re often used in children’s
rooms since the fabric is tough and not susceptible to tearing.
Voile
Voile fabrics are sheer, lightweight and breathable. This fabric is king when it comes to letting light and air
in while offering a modest degree of privacy. Voile roman blinds are best in spaces that don’t face the
street or rooms where privacy isn’t a top concern.
Since the fabric is lightweight, it won’t look chunky or overwhelm smaller rooms. On the other hand, the
thinner fabric is more prone to tears and damage compared to cotton and linen fabrics. That means these
blinds are better suited for adult spaces and areas where the blinds won’t catch on sharp edges.
Choose voile blinds if your main focus is allowing light to flood into a room.

Chenille

The word ‘chenille’ is derived from the French term meaning ‘caterpillar’. This textile features yarn that
mimics the look of a furry caterpillar, hence the name. The fabric is made from short pieces of cotton,
rayon or olefin that are twisted together. This design means that fabric can look different from different
angles, creating a sort of iridescent effect.
The sheen adds a touch of elegance and the fabric weave is incredibly soft. Since it’s made of twisted
fibres, it’s more durable and hard-wearing compared to other fabrics. It also retains heat, making it an
excellent option for people interested in thermal blinds or energy-saving styles. This fabric is also
commonly used in blackout roman blinds and blackout roller blinds.
While it offers a gorgeous look, this fabric is harder to care for compared to other roman blinds. Many
chenille fabrics need to be professionally dry cleaned or hand-washed. The fabric is prone to stretching so
cleaning chenille roman blinds often involves removing the fabric and laying it flat to dry. If you choose a
chenille roman blind, be prepared for more maintenance.

Faux Silk
For centuries, silk has been a popular fabric for those looking for sophistication and elegance. Today, real
and faux silk are among the most common roman blind materials. Real silk is made from the cocoons of
silkworms. The fabric is shimmery and silky smooth. It’s also bright and airy with a soft silhouette.
Faux silk is typically made of polyester. It is stronger than silk fabrics and is more durable, meaning these
window dressings last longer than real silk styles. Polyester is also fade-resistant. If durability and longevity
are your focus, opt for faux silk roman blinds rather than real silk options.
Both real and faux silk roman blinds are popular among those looking for a modern and elegant design.
These blinds are ideal for formal living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. These blinds pair best with soft
furnishings and decor featuring elegant lines.
They are luxurious — and thus more expensive than other fabrics. Avoid using silk blinds in wet spaces like
bathrooms and be careful hanging these blinds near anything that can catch or tear the delicate fabric. It’s
also important to exercise caution when opening and closing the silk blinds to ensure they don’t get caught
in the head rail or snag on any other mechanisms like child safety cleats.
Patterned Fabric
While blinds come in a range of colours, you’ll also find hundreds of different patterns and prints. From
mauve and duck egg flowers to teal stripes, the options are endless. These blinds can be made of printed
designs on cotton and polyester. Others are made of woven fabrics like damask and jacquard.
Patterned blinds are perfect for people who want bolder blinds that can make a bigger statement than a
plain fabric in one colour. They’re ideal for larger windows like bay windows. They can also be used in
bathrooms and small spaces that may benefit from a pop of colour.
In terms of benefits, patterned fabrics are really all about style. Choose these blinds if you’re looking for
window treatments that make a statement. These blinds also tend to be more durable since they’re often
made of woven, twisted or blended fabrics.
Some of the qualities of a good roller blind:

 Attractive design
 Flexibility
 Durability
 Low budget
 Easy to operate
 Low maintenance
 Blinds are available in wide range of colours and materials.
 You get the flexibility of choosing the right amount of privacy and protection from the sun light.
 They are extremely durable and can withstand large amounts of wear and tear.
 Different types of operation options available including: fully motorised or manual chain.
 Motorised options are becoming more popular these days due to their stylish finish and
convenience
 Blinds maintenance is easy as only simple dusting or cleaning is needed once in a while