Upholstery Fabrics: Types & Styles from Wholesalers

The upholstery fabric on a sofa, chair or headboard makes a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room. With the right wholesale upholstery supplier, you can access a wide range of fabrics to suit any design style. This guide will overview popular upholstery types and tips for choosing the perfect textile.Show More

Cotton & Cotton Blends

Cotton and cotton blend fabrics like cotton velvet offer softness and breathability. Cotton stands up well to daily wear-and-tear and laundering. It provides a casual, relaxed look. Choose cotton upholstery for family rooms, dens and kids' spaces. Opt for sturdy, durable weaves over loose weaves prone to snagging. Cotton velvet offers depth from the plush pile. It works in formal and casual rooms alike. Cotton blends add softness to performance fabrics like microfiber. Sturdy cotton duck fabric withstands heavy use. Look for heavyweight cottons for durability.

Wool & Wool Blends

Wool and wool blend upholstery impart sophistication with beautiful draping. Wool naturally resists dirt, stains and fire. It adds warmth for extra coziness. Wool holds up well to years of regular use. Tartan and tweed wool fabrics provide timeless style. Opt for wool upholstery in formal living spaces. Wool blend microfibers offer a budget-friendly alternative with stain resistance. Wool also suits transitional spaces with its versatility. For high traffic areas, look for tightly woven fabrics.

Linen & Linen Blends

Made from natural flax fibers, linen has an understated, organic look. It breathes well, so it stays cool in warm weather. Linen resists mold and mildew. It wears well over time while maintaining its structure. Linen upholstery suits relaxed, casual spaces like sunrooms. Linen blend fabrics couple the beauty of linen with added durability. Polyester-linen blends improve stain and wrinkle resistance. Cotton-linen mixes enhance softness. Linen works well for accent chairs or in boutique retail spaces.

Faux Leather

Faux leather offers the look of real leather at a fraction of the cost. It repels spills, resists stains, and cleans up easily with soap and water. Faux leather works in contemporary or modern rooms, adding a sleek, stylish touch. It suits high-traffic areas thanks to its durability. Look for faux leather with a natural texture and sheen. Match the performance level to usage – light, medium or heavy wear. Top grain leather provides the most realistic appearance. Opt for thicker, better quality leathers for durability.

Boucle & Tapestry

Boucle and tapestry fabrics add bold texture and dimension. Boucle options like nubby wool or blended tweeds impart coziness. Tapestry fabrics feature intricate designs like florals or geometric patterns. Both add character and interest to a space. These heavier fabrics suit traditional design schemes. Accent chairs covered in tapestry stand out. Use boucle fabrics on a statement sofa or headboard. Though textured, boucle resists pilling with proper care. For high traffic areas, treat boucle or tapestry to add stain protection. With access to quality wholesale upholstery fabrics, you can find the perfect patterns, textures and blends. Keep your space's style and usage in mind when selecting materials. Order samples to see swatches first-hand before committing. Then relax into custom upholstery that enhances your décor for years to come.