Upholstery Fabric

For sofas, armchairs, and other frequently used pieces, durability is essential. Hardwearing options like chenille, tweed, and polyester blends offer excellent resilience, while velvet is both robust and stylish. It’s worth checking theMartindale rub test score, which measures how many rubs a fabric can withstand before showing wear — the higher the score, the tougher the fabric. You can read more about the test in ourMartindale guide. Fire retardant upholstery fabric is also a clever choice for family homes and contract spaces where extra safety is needed. To create a cohesive look, you may want to explore our curtain fabric collection too. Free fabric samples are available, making it easy to compare at home.

Yes, upholstery fabric is versatile enough for scatter cushions, bench seating, and headboards as well as chairs and sofas. Its heavier weight makes it more durable than standard fabrics, ensuring your cushions stay looking fresh for longer. You can even mix and match fabrics — using a bold upholstery fabric on cushions alongside a more neutral sofa is a popular way to add character. Our inspiration guides are a great place to find styling ideas.

Fire retardant upholstery fabric has been treated or woven to resist ignition and slow the spread of flames, giving added peace of mind in the home. While it’s not a legal requirement for every project, many customers choose it for safety, especially in family living rooms or commercial settings. At Just Fabrics, we clearly label fire retardant options so you can select the right fabric for your needs. Samples are available so you can see the look and feel before committing.

Fabric requirements vary by furniture style and size. A standard armchair often needs 6–8 metres of upholstery fabric, while a three-seater sofa may take 12–16 metres. Pattern repeats can affect quantities, so it’s always worth adding extra to allow for matching. If in doubt, measure carefully and contact our team for guidance. We’ve put together a handyupholstery fabric calculator guidethat explains everything in more detail. Ordering fabric samples first will also help you visualise your chosen design on a larger scale.

Upholstery fabric is heavier, tightly woven, and designed to cope with daily wear, making it ideal for furniture. Curtain fabric, on the other hand, is usually lighter and intended to drape beautifully at windows. While curtain fabric can work for cushions or occasional chairs, upholstery fabric is the best choice for sofas and high-use seating. Many customers like to coordinate the two, creating a polished look by choosing curtain fabric in a complementary design.

A little routine care goes a long way. Regular vacuuming prevents dust build-up, and spot cleaning with mild soap and a damp cloth helps tackle spills quickly. Always check the care guidance for your chosen fabric before using cleaning solutions, as some may require professional cleaning. Rotating cushions and keeping furniture out of direct sunlight also prolongs its life. For extra reassurance, many of ourstain resistant upholstery fabricsmake everyday maintenance even easier, especially in busy homes. Our inspiration section is full of tips for caring for fabrics, ensuring your upholstered pieces stay looking their best for years.