3 Steps to Choosing the Best Fabric for Your Furnishings

You've found the perfect color fabric for your bedroom, but will it work well as a duvet cover as well as window treatments? There are many different fabrics available for your home, but it takes careful consideration to know which will work best and where.  

Not sure how to decide? Today, I'll be guiding you through your fabric selection, depending on its use.

1. Determine the Function 

Before looking at fabric selections, you first need to decide how and where you will use the fabric. Does it need to be stain-resistant? Light filtering or insulating? Durable?  This answer will help lead you to the best options. 

These side panels frame a beautiful view and the client’s dogs like to look outside also. Any dog hair or dander will be easy to wipe away as the panels are made with a performance fabric.

2. Consider Performance of the Fabrics

A fabric with a high rub count is best for slipcovers, upholstery, and seating. A rub count refers to how many times the material is rubbed before it shows wear. The fabric testing is done at the mill. The best of these are tight weave performance fabrics. 

Cotton, manufactured fibers such as Polyester, and blends are great multi-purpose fabrics, although Polyester may need additional fabrication techniques to work well in drapery panels. 

Linen and silk are beautiful for window treatments. However, know that you can expect the linen to wrinkle easily and fluctuate in length depending on the moisture in the air. Also, silk looks best when paired with layers of linings to provide body. 

Outdoor cushions are easy to care for using a quality outdoor fabric.

3. Choose Color, Pattern & Style

Once you have narrowed down the options and know which type of fabric to look for, it's time to make your selection. Select fabrics that work with your home's overall design. Knowing what style you don't like is just as important as knowing what you do like.

Are you still feeling overwhelmed? I understand. There’s more than color or pattern to consider when choosing a fabric. One of the best parts of my job is helping my clients choose the right fabrics and seeing their faces light up after seeing the completed project.  

Ready for a partner in stunning and memorable custom furnishings? I can help. Call to book a discovery call. I'd love to help you!  

Until next time,

Laura