Your refurbished piece of furniture will become your adorning crown jewel in it’s room. That is why it is important to choose the perfect fabric for the job, not only because is it the most visible portion of furniture, but it needs to be user friendly as well in terms of comfort. Needless to say there are some considerations you will have to take into account before you can make a decision on the type of fabric you will use. Today fabric choices include cloth, leather, and many new high-tech synthetics. The style of furniture you are working with, where it will be placed and your budget are a few of the things that will all come into play in making a final decision. Here are some considerations you need to look at:
Color...
If your re upholstered piece is going to be in a high traffic area and used often, you might want to consider not only a fabric that lends well to durability and stain resistance, but also a color that won’t show dirt easily. If your piece is going to be placed in a sunlight area, you will have to consider the possibility of fading. Finally ask how well the colors in the swatch you are interested in will hold up to spot washing as well, and if there are any manufacturers recommendations regarding the cleaning of the fabric.
Durability...
Pieces that are subject to daily heavy wear need to be covered in durable, tightly woven fabrics. Preferably with their pattern woven in as opposed to printed on as these will wear much better. Though vinyl is excellent for a kitchen a chair because it is very durable and washable, it is questionable whether you want to wrap an antique dining set in vinyl. Clearly there is a compromise between functionality and style. You will need to find that perfect balance that best suits all members of the family young, old, and four legged alike.
Thread count...
Thread count is a measurement given to fabric. It refers to the number f threads per square inch. The higher the thread count the more tightly woven the fabric is, and the better t will wear. And in most cases the more expensive as well. there is a trade off between durability and frugality. Within that continuum you will find your perfect fit.
It’s complexity....
How easy is the fabric to work with? Is it stiff or supple? Does it lend to easily being wrinkled or marked? Is it going to round corners without unwanted tucks and dimple?. Are there checkers or lines that will have to be aligned or matched? If these considerations are not taken into account your newly re upholstered piece can become a tragic disaster if you plan to do it your self.
It always helps to bend an ear of someone who has worked with fabrics, especially upholstery fabrics. Search these people out and chat with them. They have years of valuable experience that can save you a considerable headache when facing the multitude of choices the fabric industry presents. In addition to a few how-to secrets only an experienced re upholsterer can know. You will be glad you did! Most important, be sure to pick a fabric that you can truly LIVE with. And, if you grow tired of it in a few years, remember that virtually all upholstery can be re-covered!
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