upholstery fabric types
Knowing the main upholstery fabric types can make or break your next project. The right furniture upholstery fabric has to look great, feel comfortable, and stand up to daily life, whether you're recovering a dining chair or refreshing a well-loved family sofa.
Popular Upholstery Fabrics at a Glance
Natural Fibers
Cotton and linen breathe well and offer a relaxed, classic look. They suit lower-traffic pieces and are friendly for beginners to sew.
Velvet and Chenille
Plush pile fabrics add depth and softness. Velvet upholstery fabric shines on accent chairs, headboards, and statement sofas.
Synthetics and Performance Blends
Polyester, olefin, and other performance upholstery fabric options are designed to resist stains and fading, which often makes them the best fabric for sofas in homes with kids, pets, or sunny windows.
What to Look For
- Durability: For durable upholstery fabric, check rub counts (Wyzenbeek or Martindale) when they're listed.
- Weight: Heavier fabrics generally hold up better on seats and cushions.
- Cleaning code: W, S, W/S, or X tells you how the fabric should be cleaned.
- Pattern repeat: Large repeats require extra yardage to match seams.
Ready to find your match? Browse our reupholstery fabric selection below and compare textures, colors, and weights for your next project.
