Choosing the right fabric for your DIY project can be a struggle. Should you go for a luxurious silk fabric for your bedding, or is it better to stick to the durability and practicality of cotton? Is it always better to go for the most durable fabric, and how to evaluate the quality of fabric?
To make your decision easier and help you find an answer to the many different questions you might have, we have compiled a list of useful tips for the right fabric choice and the best applications for a number of popular fabrics.
What factors to consider when choosing a fabric
There are several things you can do to make shopping for fabric a less daunting task. Follow these 7 easy steps, and you will figure out what the best option for your dream project is.
1. Learn from the beginning
We understand that it might be difficult to choose the right fabric when you’re just starting out. However, as with all things, it becomes easier with practice. Do some research online, even a simple Google search on the best fabric for your intended project can be a lot of help. You can also browse fabric retailer websites for such information as care instructions and recommended uses. Forums, blogs, and video tutorials provide a lot of insight as well.
Don’t be discouraged if it takes you time to decide, the more effort you put into selecting the right fabric, the better the end result will be and the more knowledgeable you’ll be for future projects.
2. Understand the fabric's purpose
Fabrics are designed for different purposes, with each having its special attributes. For example, a fabric suitable for a plush throw blanket that requires softness and extra warmth would be entirely different from the one for a cafe or living room couch, where durability and resistance against rough use are more important.
When choosing a fabric, it’s critical to know what fabric your project needs. Identifying the key function of your fabric will help ensure that it not only looks well but also lasts for a long time.
3. Read the fabric label
Always read the label to understand the fabric's material and care instructions. The label will also typically include information on whether the fabric can be machine washed or dry cleaned, and how to properly iron it.
If you plan to use a washing machine for your upholstery, check if your selected fabric is suitable in the care instructions. You can read more about fabric labels and their meanings in this guide by Tide—one of the leading detergent brands in the U.S.
4. Touch and feel the fabric
Don't just rely on the look of the fabric. Touch it, feel it, and even drape it to understand its texture, weight, and flow. We provide Free Sample Shipping across the US to allow you the all-important opportunity to touch and feel the fabrics before you decide.
5. Test the fabric’s color fastness
Checking the color fastness of fabric, especially if it is intended to be worn as clothing, is an important step to help ensure that the color will not fade or fade during washing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check color fastness.
Don’t be afraid and give it a try!
6. Consider the season
Choose the fabric based on the season. Linen and cotton are great for light summer curtains, while wool and heavier fabrics are good for bedding and decorative pillows used in winter.
For Summer:
- Linen is famous for its incredible breathability and a natural talent for controlling temperature. The distinctive weave of this fabric allows air to easily flow through it and prevents overheating.
- Cotton is a naturally breathable fiber that allows air to circulate freely and pass through the fabric, providing airflow and helping to avoid the concept of being "too hot''.
For winter:
- Wool is a natural and historic fiber with crimped fibers. These crimps form tiny insulation air pockets inside the fabric, holding warmth well. Wool has high heat retention properties, making it an ideal choice for cold weather.
7. Examine weave durability
Look closely at the weave of the fabric. A tight weave usually means that the fabric is stronger and more durable, while a loose weave may mean that the fabric is softer and more breathable, but more fragile.
To determine the durability of fabric you can also refer to its double rub count. It quantifies how many times a fabric can be rubbed back and forth until it shows wear.
High double rub counts (above 15,000) can indicate a more robust and practical type of fabric while lower ones (below 10,000) are more suitable for decorative and infrequently used items. Here is a more detailed table of the most suitable use cases for each double rub range.
How to choose the right fabric for your project
Remember, there is no "one-size-fits-all" fabric. What might be the best fabric for one project could be the worst for another, so it's important to take your specific needs into account, for example:
- Polyester, though durable and versatile, lacks breathability, making it unsuitable for a baby’s room, particularly in warm weather.
- Silk is the epitome of luxury, yet it requires careful handling and cool water washing, making it less suitable for high-traffic solutions or items needing frequent washes.
- Cotton is soft, breathable, and natural but can shrink or wrinkle and isn't as durable as synthetic fabrics.
- Linen, while excellent for warm climates due to its moisture absorption, tends to wrinkle and requires regular ironing.
Comparing different types of fabric
Here is a more detailed overview of some of the most widely used fabric types, their double rub count, advantages and disadvantages, as well as popular use cases:
|
Fabric type |
Durability range |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Use cases |
|
Silk |
5,000-15,000 rubs |
Luxurious appearance, natural shine, soft feel |
Expensive, less durable, requires dry cleaning |
Bedding, table linens, pillows, etc. |
|
Cotton |
3,000 - 15,000 rubs |
Natural, hypoallergenic, soft, breathable, easy to clean |
Can wrinkle easily, may shrink, less resistant to wear |
Curtains, upholstery fabric, bed linens, cushions |
|
Polyester |
10,000 - 30,000 rubs |
Durable, stain-resistant, affordable, low maintenance |
Can trap heat, less breathable, synthetic feel |
Sofa and chair upholstery, curtains, bedding, outdoor cushions |
|
Linen |
12,000 - 20,000 rubs |
Breathable, eco-friendly, elegant drape |
Wrinkles easily, can feel rough initially, needs proper care |
Cushions, upholstery, table coverings, drapery |
|
Wool |
20,000 - 50,000 rubs |
Durable, warm, insulating, flame-retardant |
Expensive, can be itchy, needs special care |
Rugs, upholstery, blankets, cushions, |
|
Velvet |
15,000 - 30,000 rubs |
Luxurious, soft, rich color depth |
Can show marks or wear over time and, harder to clean |
Sofas, chairs, curtains, decorative pillows |
|
Chenille |
8,000 - 15,000 rubs |
Soft, cozy, textured look |
Can wear easily, prone to snagging |
Couches and chairs upholstery, decorative pillows, throws |
For a more extensive guide, give our blog post on evaluating the quality of fabric a read.
Conclusion: Which fabric should you choose for your project?
Ultimately, choosing the perfect fabric for your project depends on your specific needs. For a luxurious feel, silk or velvet are great choices, while polyester or cotton offer durability and easy care. Linen provides a natural, elegant look, and wool adds warmth and coziness.
Consider how the fabric will be used in your home and how much maintenance you're willing to manage. The combination of these two factors will ensure that you’re not only happy with the outcome of your project but also that it will keep its original appearance for years to come.
Check out our assortment of different fabric types, the perfect fit for your project might be right here.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most durable sofa fabric?
The most durable sofa fabrics include polyester, microfiber, and leather, which are known for their resistance to wear and tear. Fabrics like wool and tightly woven cotton blends also offer excellent durability, especially when they have a high double rub count.
Why do you need to choose the right fabric?
Choosing the right fabric is important because it affects the durability, comfort, and appearance of your project. The right fabric means that your DIY or upholstery will turn out both functional and stylish, while also standing up to everyday use and wear.
How do I choose the right amount of fabric?
To choose the right amount of fabric, measure the area you're covering and account for fabric width, cushion depth, and pattern matching. Consult yardage charts for guidance. You should always buy 10-15% extra to allow for errors or future repairs..
What is the fabric double rub count?
This is a measurement that indicates how many times the fabric can withstand being rubbed before showing wear. One double rub (back and forth) simulates the motion of someone sitting down and getting up from upholstered furniture. A higher double rub count, generally, means the fabric is more durable and suitable for high-traffic areas.
What’s a good double rub count?
The perfect double rub count depends on what you plan to use the fabric for. A fabric with a double rub count of 15,000 or above is considered durable for household use; however, a count of 30,000 or more is advised for commercial or high-traffic areas to ensure long-lasting wear.
