Upholstery fabric is a type of cloth used to cover furniture, such as chairs and couches. It is made from either natural fibers or synthetic ones and can be woven into a wide variety of patterns and colors. It also can come with a backing, which helps add durability and strength. The type of backing and the underlying material also impact how durable a piece of upholstery fabric is. It is important to consider how much use the fabric will be subjected to when selecting a type of upholstery.

Woven upholstery fabrics are made of a variety of materials, such as cotton, linen, wool, and rayon. Each one has its own unique qualities that make it a good choice for different types of furniture. Wool and silk, for example, are luxurious and have a nice feel to them. However, they can be more difficult to clean, as they can stain and wrinkle easily. Cotton is a great choice for upholstered furniture, as it can be a bit more resistant to wear and tear. Linen, on the other hand, is a highly breathable fabric that has a beautiful texture. It is often used in high-end upholstery pieces because it looks and feels great, but it can shrink when washed and stains very easily.

In addition to the type of fiber, the weave and finish of upholstery fabric also can affect how long it will last. The type of weave, for instance, can determine how sturdy a piece is and whether it will hold up well to repeated abrasions. The finish on the fabric can also influence how long it will resist fading, wrinkling and water.

Traditionally, upholsterers created their own fabric to cover furniture. In modern times, though, most people choose a particular fabric that suits their personal taste and fits the style of the room. The type of fabric that is selected can have an impact on the overall look and feel of the room, so it is a crucial factor in interior design.

There are many kinds of upholstery fabric available, from the classic to the modern. Some of the more traditional choices include chintz, chenille, and crewel, which all feature patterned designs on the fabric. Damask is another popular option, which is made of silk fiber. Today, upholstery fabric can be categorized as synthetic or natural, with synthetic options including polyester and acrylic, while natural fabrics include wool and cotton. Natural fabrics may be blended with synthetic fibers to improve the durability of the material.