Fabrics & Textiles
A comprehensive guide to the fabrics we trust — from performance textiles to velvet, linen, mohair, and designer materials.
This page is built for designers, homeowners, and restoration clients seeking clarity, durability, and long-term performance.
Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics are engineered for durability, stain resistance, and long-term wear.
They are ideal for high-use seating, family homes, commercial spaces, and hospitality environments.
- High double-rub counts for abrasion resistance
- Stain-resistant coatings and moisture barriers
- Fade-resistant dyes for sun-exposed rooms
- Perfect for dining chairs, banquettes, and family-use sofas
Velvet
Velvet offers unmatched depth, richness, and luxury. Modern velvets include performance blends that resist crushing and marking.
- Cotton velvet — soft, matte, elegant
- Mohair velvet — extremely durable, heirloom quality
- Performance velvet — stain-resistant and family-friendly
- Best for accent chairs, headboards, and luxury seating
Linen
Linen is breathable, natural, and visually relaxed. It offers a soft, organic texture that ages beautifully.
- Natural fiber with a cool hand
- Ideal for slipcovers and casual seating
- Wrinkles naturally — part of its charm
- Available in performance-treated versions
Mohair
Mohair is one of the strongest natural fibers in the world. It is flame-resistant, crush-resistant, and exceptionally durable.
- Luxury-grade durability
- Deep, rich color saturation
- Ideal for heirloom seating and high-use areas
- Premium choice for designers seeking longevity
Understanding Double Rubs & Durability
Fabric durability is measured in double rubs — a test simulating wear over time. Higher numbers indicate stronger performance.
- 6,000–15,000: Light residential use
- 15,000–30,000: Standard residential upholstery
- 30,000–50,000: Heavy residential / light commercial
- 50,000+: Commercial-grade durability
Pattern Matching & Direction
Proper pattern alignment is essential for luxury upholstery. We match patterns across seams, cushions, and frames to maintain visual continuity.
- Centered motifs
- Directional repeats aligned across cushions
- Railroading vs. up-the-roll orientation
- Symmetry across arms, backs, and fronts
Choosing the Right Fabric
The best fabric depends on how the piece will be used. We guide clients toward materials that balance beauty, durability, and application.
- High-use seating → performance fabrics
- Luxury accent pieces → velvet or mohair
- Relaxed, natural look → linen
- Heirloom restoration → period-correct textiles
Explore More Materials
Continue learning about the materials we trust across upholstery, restoration, and custom fabrication.
