cheap upholstery fabric

Reupholstering a chair or refreshing a sofa doesn't have to drain your budget. The right cheap upholstery fabric can look polished and stand up to daily use, as long as you know what to look for. Here's a quick guide before you browse.

What to Look for in Affordable Upholstery Fabric

Weight and Weave

Choose medium- to heavyweight fabrics with a tight weave. Densely woven cloth resists snagging, holds its shape over cushions, and hides wear better than thin, loose materials.

Fiber Content

Polyester, olefin, and poly blends are popular budget upholstery fabric choices because they tend to resist fading and stains. Cotton canvas and duck cloth are sturdy, easy to sew, and great for slipcovers or casual furniture.

Durability Ratings

If a product lists a double rub (abrasion) rating, use it. Higher numbers suit high-traffic pieces like sofas and dining chairs, while lower ratings work well for headboards, pillows, and accent pieces.

Smart Ways to Stretch Your Budget

• Buy discount upholstery fabric by the yard in just the amount you need for small projects like seat cushions.
• Pick solids or small-scale patterns to reduce waste when matching repeats.
• Order a swatch first when possible to check color and texture in your space.

Ready to start? Browse our inexpensive upholstery fabric selection below and find the perfect match for your next project.