| One of the most formidable chores involved with | | | | subjected to much use. Function is critical: don't let |
| redecorating is trying to find the right fabric for | | | | yourself be fooled into thinking the prettier, daintier |
| upholstery or drapery. If two of you are involved in the | | | | fabric that looks so nice will hold up to heavy wear. |
| decision making, it may seem like an impossible task. | | | | Find a fabric that balances practicality with the look |
| But don't worry, this article will provide several solutions | | | | you want. |
| to make your mission less impossible. | | | | There are many upholstery fabrics that can be found |
| The first step is identifying all the factors you need to | | | | almost anywhere, so knowing their appropriate uses |
| consider and come up with some guidelines to help | | | | will aid in selecting the material that will be the best |
| you agree on the final decision. You'll find an endless | | | | choice for you. Consult the following list before |
| assortment of weights, textures, and patterns to | | | | beginning our search for the best upholstery or |
| choose from, and you'll need a good idea of each | | | | drapery fabric for your needs. |
| fabric's qualities - ease of cleaning, resistance to dirt, | | | | Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that resists fading, soiling, |
| and durability. Although the hurdles at the beginning of | | | | wear, and wrinkling. It was developed as imitation wool. |
| your journey may seem insurmountable, we'll focus on | | | | Cotton is a natural fiber that resists fading, wear, and |
| what's really important at this first step and make the | | | | piling. |
| initial decision a little clearer. | | | | Nylon can be blended with many other fibers to create |
| There are only two important factors to consider | | | | one of the longest wearing upholstery fabrics. |
| when beginning your search for a fabric: form and | | | | Polyester is blended to many other fibers to help |
| function. Form can be described as what the fabric will | | | | reduce wrinkles, crushing, and fading. |
| look like, and function is how the fabric will be used. | | | | Silk is a delicate fabric that should only be used in |
| The colors and patterns you want will influence the | | | | areas where there are no children or pets. Silk requires |
| form. How much the fabric will actually be used will | | | | professional cleaning when soiled. |
| classify the function you'll need. Will it be in a room | | | | Vinyl, on the other hand, is ideal for any area where |
| that's off-limits to children and pets, like a formal dining | | | | the kids play, such as family rooms and basements. It |
| room, only used on holidays? Or will Fido and the kids | | | | is an inexpensive alternative to leather and is very |
| be jumping all over it while playing? Take some time to | | | | easy to clean. |
| reflect on the different ways it may be used and you'll | | | | Wool is another fabric that resists fading and wrinkling, |
| be able to narrow down your search considerably right | | | | as well as dirt and pilling. |
| from the beginning. | | | | You'll find shopping for fabric much simpler if you are |
| Your answers will help you decide whether to focus | | | | aware of the type of fabric you need and the options |
| on a durable, stain-resistant material in a color that | | | | that are available. Now you can begin the process of |
| hides stains well, or one that won't be kept clean as | | | | shopping for new drapes or upholstery without feeling |
| easily and may be much more delicate, but won't be | | | | so intimidated! |