Upholstery

Fabrics

Thread count is the number of threads in a square inch of fabric. A higher thread count means fabric is more tightly woven and will wear better. Natural and synthetic materials are available for upholstery, and usage depends on your preference and how you will use the furniture.

• Cotton is a natural fiber with natural resistance to wear, fading, and pilling. On its own, it is less well equipped against wrinkling, fire, and becoming soiled, but blending cotton with other fibers can often lessen these weaknesses. A cotton blend can be a piece of durable and family-friendly fabric. For everyday use, consider having a surface stain repellent applied.
• Leather is a naturally durable material. You can wipe it clean with a damp cloth and use a low suction vacuum hose attachment to clean the surface gently. Use of a quality leather conditioner or saddle oil is suggested to keep the material supple. 

• Linen and silk are very delicate natural fabrics and should be reserved for formal rooms or other adults-only areas of your home. Both materials need to be professionally cleaned should they become soiled.
• Acrylic is manufactured as imitation wool. It resists wearing, wrinkling, and fading. High-quality acrylics are also made to pill less than lower-quality versions.
• Microfiber has a velvety texture and high durability. It is impervious to moisture and stains, making it an excellent choice for high foot traffic living areas.
• Olefin is another synthetic fabric that is well-suited for heavy use. Mildew, moisture, abrasions, and UV exposure are no match for this ultra-durable fabric. Olefin is also at home indoors or outside.

Things to Consider

Before deciding to reupholster a piece of furniture, consider these factors.

• Do you love the style of the piece? You can easily change out cushions and skirts, but if what you love is the lines of the work, including the arms and pitch of the seatback, reupholstery may be for you. These components are not easily changed, and you may have trouble finding an exact style match, especially if it is a vintage piece.
• Does the piece have a specific place in your home? Perhaps it’s a settee that looks heavenly on a staircase landing or a sofa that looks like it was made for your sitting room. If the piece is perfect for you aside from being worn, upholstery fabric can work wonders.

• Is the furniture built well? Furniture crafted decades ago was made using different techniques than furniture manufactured today. A chair with a plywood frame is never worth the time and cost necessary to reupholster it. A solid wood frame, with legs that are an integral part of the piece, not just screwed on, is an item created to last and should be reupholstered.
• Are you a fan of truly custom pieces? A piece that has been in your family for years is most likely already unique compared to today’s furniture. Using upholstery fabric to transform it into something that makes a vision a reality is always well worth it.