Feb 06, 2026

How to chose upholstery fabric

Choosing upholstery fabric can feel overwhelming. One minute you’re falling in love with a colour, the next you’re staring at technical terms like Martindale, wondering if you accidentally signed up for a textiles degree.

The good news? Picking the right upholstery fabric is much easier once you know what actually matters. This guide walks you through the key factors—from lifestyle and fibre choices to durability ratings—so you can choose a fabric that looks great and lasts.

1. Start With How the Furniture Will Be Used

Before you even think about colour or texture, ask one simple question: who is going to use this furniture, and how often?

Everyday family sofa: Needs to handle constant use, spills, and maybe pets.
Occasional chair or guest-room piece: Can be more delicate and design-focused.
Commercial or high-traffic spaces: Durability is non-negotiable.

Your lifestyle should always lead the decision. A pale linen sofa may look good, but if it’s going in a busy living room with kids and pets, it might not love you back.

2. Understand Upholstery Fabric Types

Upholstery fabrics come in a wide range of fibres, each with pros and cons.

Natural fibres

Cotton: Soft, breathable, affordable—but can stain easily.
Linen: Elegant and cool, but creases and wears faster.
Wool: Durable and naturally stain-resistant, though often pricier.

Synthetic fibres

Polyester: Strong, fade-resistant, and easy to clean.
Nylon: Extremely durable and often blended with other fibres.
Acrylic: Mimics wool and resists fading.

Blended fabrics combine natural and synthetic fibres and are often the sweet spot—comfortable, practical, and hard-wearing.

3. Texture and Weave Matter More Than You Think

Two fabrics made from the same fibre can perform very differently depending on how they’re woven.

Tight weaves (like canvas or twill) are generally more durable.
Loose weaves can snag more easily, especially with pets.
Velvets and chenilles feel luxurious but may show pressure marks or shading.

Always touch the fabric. Rub it. Sit on it if you can. Upholstery is as much about feel as it is about looks. Be sure to order a sample!

4. What Is the Martindale Test?

This is where things get technical—but it’s worth understanding.

The Martindale test measures a fabric’s resistance to abrasion (in other words, how well it stands up to rubbing). During the test, fabric is rubbed in a figure-eight motion until signs of wear appear. The number of rubs it withstands is its Martindale rating.

How to Read Martindale Ratings

Here’s a simple guide:

10,000–20,000 rubs: Light domestic use (decorative chairs, occasional seating)
20,000–30,000 rubs: General domestic use (sofas, armchairs)
30,00–40,000 rubs: Heavy domestic
40,000+ rubs: Commercial and contract use

Choosing upholstery fabric is a blend of practical thinking and personal taste. Start with how the furniture will be used, choose fibres and weaves that fit your lifestyle, and use the Martindale rating as a guide—not a rulebook.

When you get it right, your furniture won’t just look good on day one. It’ll still look good years down the line—and that’s the real mark of a great upholstery choice.

Take a look at our selection of upholstery fabrics