Fabric
How long an upholstery fabric lasts depends on the fibre and on how tightly it is woven, together: a tight polyester weave outlasts a loose pure linen.
Every Sitdesign piece is upholstered to order in the fabric you choose. You are also welcome to supply your own.
Fabric types
| Type | Texture | Strength | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton velvet | Dense pile, weighty | Full, rich look | Pile flattens and shades in heavily used areas |
| Polyester velvet | Pile | Resists abrasion and stains, suits everyday use | |
| Mohair or wool velvet | Textured pile | Very hard-wearing | Cost |
| Bouclé | Looped, nubby | Warm, textured look | Cat claws catch and pull the loops |
| Chenille | Tufted yarn, velvet-like | Soft | Pills more readily |
| Linen | Slubby, natural lustre | A stronger fibre than cotton | Creases, stains readily, weakens in direct sun; blends crease less |
| Cotton | Soft, takes dye well | Comfortable | Modest abrasion resistance, fades in sun |
| Wool | Full | Durable, naturally flame-resistant | Needs professional cleaning |
| Flat weave | Tight, smooth | Pills little | |
| Performance fabric | Various | Repels stains and liquids | Ask whether the protection is in the fibre or a finish applied afterwards |
| Outdoor acrylic | Flat | Colour runs through the fibre, so it resists fading | Abrasion figures can be modest |
How to read a fabric data sheet
| Value | What it measures | How to read it |
|---|---|---|
| Martindale (cycles) | Abrasion | Under 10,000 decorative · 10-15,000 light domestic · 15-25,000 general domestic · 25-30,000 heavy domestic · 30,000 and over contract |
| Pilling (1-5) | Bobbling | 5 is none, 1 is severe; 4 and above is good |
| Light fastness (1-8) | Fading | 4 is the minimum for interiors, 5 is recommended for a home, 6 for a south-facing room |
| Rubbing fastness (1-5) | Colour transfer | At least 4 dry and 3 wet |
| Fire rating | Ignition | EN 1021-1 cigarette, EN 1021-2 match flame; BS 5852 Crib 5 is stricter |
These Martindale bands are an industry guide, not part of the standard, and sources differ at the upper end. A very high Martindale figure does not mean a longer life, and it does not guarantee a good pilling grade either.
Supplying your own fabric
Tell us the usable width, the pattern repeat, the fibre content and whether the fabric has a pile or a one-way design. We work out the quantity for the model and size you have chosen and confirm it in writing; a large pattern repeat can add 20% or more.
Care
- Vacuum regularly with an upholstery attachment, on low power.
- Turn the cushions over and swap their positions.
- Blot spills with a white cloth, working from the edge inwards. Do not rub.
- Keep out of direct sunlight. Dark colours and natural fibres fade fastest.
- Wash or dry-clean covers only if the fabric's care label allows it.
- Velvet: brush flattened pile in the direction of the nap. Use steam only if the mill allows it for that fibre.
- Pilling is not a fault. Remove pills with a fabric shaver; it lessens once the loose fibres are gone.
Frequently asked questions
What Martindale value is good for a sofa?
15,000 to 25,000 for everyday home use, and 25,000 or more for heavy daily use.
Which fabric is best with pets and children?
A tight weave, microfibre or a performance fabric. Avoid looped textures and untreated linen.
Is bouclé a good idea with a cat?
Claws catch and pull the loops, which causes snags.
Is velvet durable?
It depends on the fibre. Mohair and polyester velvets are hard-wearing; viscose and silk velvets are delicate.
Does linen crease?
Yes. Linen blends crease less.
Is a stain-resistant finish safe?
Ask whether the fabric is PFAS-free, and ask for an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certificate.
Can I use my own fabric?
Yes. We check with you that it is suitable for upholstery before we cut it.