Upholstery & Home Decor Fabric

Upholstery fabric is significantly heavier and more durable than standard dressmaking fabric. It is woven to be “stable,” meaning it does not stretch or distort easily when pulled tight over a frame. While dressmaking fabric focuses on drape and softness against the skin, upholstery fabric focuses on “rub-count” and longevity for items like cushions and curtains.

Yes, our fabrics are heavy-duty and durable enough for furniture. However, please note that our upholstery range is not pre-treated with fire-retardant (FR) chemicals. If you are recovering a piece of furniture in a UK home, you should use a fire-retardant interlining (Schedule 3) between the foam and your chosen fabric to ensure your project complies with UK domestic fire safety regulations.

Because upholstery fabrics are often a mix of complex weaves like chenille or velvet, we recommend spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild upholstery shampoo for small marks. For larger items like removable cushion covers, a cool hand-wash or a professional dry clean is best to prevent the fabric from shrinking or losing its structural “body.”

When sewing heavy-duty materials, you should use a dedicated Denim or Leather needle (size 100/16 or 110/18). These needles have a reinforced shaft and a very sharp point designed to punch through multiple layers of thick weave without breaking or skipping stitches. Always use a high-quality, strong polyester thread for long-lasting seams.