How to Evaluate the Quality of Fabric?

How to Evaluate the Quality of Fabric?

Source: Freepik

In the world of interiors, upholstery, quilting, and DIY projects, the right choice of fabric can either make or break your project. Quality in fabric not only makes your projects look better but also provides durability and a sense of luxury.

This article will arm you with knowledge about what quality fabric is, help you find the best fabric, and give a couple of tips on where to search and what to do first.

What are the characteristics of high-quality fabric?

Before getting into the finer points, it's essential to understand the basics of fabrics. Knowing what types of fabrics there are and understanding key fabric terminology are the building blocks for being able to choose the best material for your project.

Types of fabrics

Let’s start with learning about different types of fabrics. All textiles can generally be divided into two major categories: natural and synthetic fabrics. Each of these categories has its pros and cons, which are important to know in order to choose the best fit for your project.

Natural fabrics

These are fabrics made from animal hair, silkworm cocoons, seeds, leaves, and stems of plants. They are considered valuable due to their comfort, breathability, and environmental friendliness; however, they might be a bit more difficult to wash and clean.

Flat lay of monochromatic assortment of textiles in brown and beige colors.

Source: Freepik

Here are the 6 natural fabrics most beloved by our customers:

  1. Cotton fabric. Cotton is durable, breathable, and easy to clean, making it perfect for upholstery, drapery, and home accessories. Its softness also makes it ideal for creating comfortable cushions, curtains, and slipcovers.
  2. Silk fabric. Silk is luxurious, smooth, and naturally lustrous, best used for elegant drapery, decorative pillows, and sophisticated upholstery. Its delicate sheen and drapability add a sense of sophistication to any room.
  3. Linen fabric. Linen is valued for its breathability, natural texture, and timeless appeal, making it ideal for curtains, table linens, and furniture upholstery. Its crisp, relaxed look is perfect for creating a light and airy home.
  4. Mohair fabric. Mohair is soft, lustrous, and exceptionally durable, often used for high-end upholstery, throws, and decorative pillows. Its unique sheen instantly elevates any room.
  5. Alpaca fabric. Alpaca is warm, hypoallergenic, and incredibly soft, suitable for plush throws, cushions, and cozy home accessories. Its natural fibers combine both comfort and luxury.
  6. Velvet fabric. Velvet is rich, plush, and soft, ideal for luxurious upholstery, curtains or pillows. Its texture and depth of color make it perfect for statement pieces.

Synthetic fabrics

These fabrics are man-made and developed through various chemical processes. They are highly durable, resistant to deformation, and have wrinkle-free qualities; however, they might lack breathability and are often less environmentally friendly.

A close-up of colorful fabrics in bright green and pink, with a few droplets of water on them.

Source: Freepik

Our collection offers a broad selection of synthetic fabrics, here are the 6 most popular ones:

  1. Nylon fabric. Nylon is strong, resistant to abrasion, and easy to clean, making it ideal for high-traffic upholstery, rugs, and outdoor furniture.
  2. Rayon fabric. Rayon has a soft, smooth texture with a luxurious feel, often used for drapery, upholstery, and decorative textiles. It can mimic the look and feel of natural fabrics like silk and linen.
  3. Modacrylic fabric. Modacrylic is flame-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for upholstery and home textiles requiring added safety, such as curtains and protective furniture covers.
  4. Acrylic fabric. Acrylic is lightweight, fade-resistant, and soft, perfect for outdoor cushions, throws, and upholstery. Its vibrant color options and resistance to sun exposure make it ideal for patio furniture and sunrooms.
  5. Polyester fabric. Polyester is highly durable, stain-resistant, and easy to care for, often used for upholstery, curtains, and home decor accessories. Its ability to resist wrinkling and fading makes it a practical choice for everyday use.
  6. Faux leather and vinyl fabric. Faux leather and vinyl are durable, easy to clean, and water-resistant, making them excellent for upholstery, headboards, and decorative accents. A modern, stylish alternative to real leather.

Key fabric terminology

The next step in accurately determining the quality of fabric is understanding such core terms as thread count, weave, and weight. These will give you an idea about the way the fabric has been made, and therefore its texture, appearance, and performance.

Thread count

Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric, indicating the fabric’s density, softness, and quality. Generally, a higher thread count means that the fabric is finer, smoother, and more durable. 

However, at times, excessively high thread counts can be deceiving, as manufacturers are known to use thinner threads just to boost the count. Therefore, the thread count should not be considered by itself but in combination with the fabric quality and its weave.

Close-up of a bright blue wool fabric.

Source: Freepik

Fabric weight

The weight of the fabric can determine how strong it is or what projects it is best suited for. Usually, the heavier the fabric, the more durable it is.

Lighter fabrics are used for delicate, free-flowing items such as sheer curtains and bedding. Some of the lightweight fabrics include silk fabric (silk chiffon fabric, silk organza fabric, and silk taffeta fabric), voile fabric, cotton fabric, and linen fabric.

Lightweight voile fabric with a smooth finish, in pink, orange and beige colors.

Source: Freepik 

In contrast, heavy fabrics such as canvas, wool, or chenille fabric are most often used for furniture upholstery,  blackout curtains, or outdoor use.

Weave complexity

The weave of the fabric affects the texture, appearance, and durability of fabrics. There are fabrics with special weaves, as well as plain fabric, twill fabric, and satin fabrics.

  • Plain weave. Follows a simple, crisscross pattern that creates a versatile, durable fabric with a uniform appearance. This weave is common in cotton and linen and is ideal for everyday items such as bedding.
  • Twill weave. Characterized by diagonal ribs, creating a strong fabric with a distinct texture. Most commonly found in denim fabrics, this weave is also ideal for reupholstering and bathroom curtains.
  • Satin weave. A floating thread that creates a smooth, lustrous surface, giving a luxurious sheen and softness to the touch. Satin is often used in the creation of luxurious bedding and curtains. This material is often used as a replacement for silk because of its very similar texture but is much cheaper.

Images showing the difference between plain weave, twill weave, and satin weave.

Source: Basalt

How to determine fabric quality: 7 practical tips

To truly get a feel of the quality of a fabric, it's crucial to engage in hands-on evaluation. Here are some practical tips:

1. Touching and feeling the fabric

The tactile qualities of a fabric are a direct indicator of its quality. High-quality fabrics tend to be smooth and pleasant to the touch, indicating well-spun fibers and a tight weave. Conversely, a rough or scratchy texture may indicate lower-gauge or coarser fibers.

Hands holding a sheer burgundy organza fabric on a light pink background.

Source: Freepik

2. Stretching the fabric

A stretch test can tell you a lot about a fabric's elasticity and fiber strength. Gently stretch the fabric and see how it responds. High-quality fabrics should return to their original shape without sagging. A fabric that remains stretched indicates poor quality and can wear out extremely quickly.

3. Checking transparency

The transparency test is a simple but effective way to assess the density and quality of a fabric. Hold the fabric up to a light source. Less transparency due to a tighter weave and a higher thread count usually indicate a potentially higher-quality material.

This test is especially useful for fabrics designed for privacy or sun protection.

4. Examining weave consistency

Inspect the weave carefully to check for consistency and evenness. High-quality fabrics will have a consistent weave without gaps, irregularities, or loose threads. An uneven or sloppy weave can indicate poor quality and affect the fabric's durability.

5. Reading fabric labels

Fabric labels are a treasure trove of information, detailing the fiber content, care instructions, and sometimes even the fabric's origin. High-quality fabrics often have detailed labels, providing all the information about the fiber's composition and recommended care, which can help maintain the fabric's integrity over time.

Close-up of a clothing label of fabric composition and care instructions.

Source: Freepik

6. Testing fabric color fastness

While this isn’t always possible, if you can, rub a damp cloth over a small, hidden section of the fabric to see if any color transfers. If it does, it means that the fabric might fade quickly and bleed when washed. This happens because the dye of the fabric hasn’t set as well as it should.

7. Asking the right questions

When purchasing fabric, don't hesitate to ask the seller about its origin, treatment, and recommended care to ensure quality.

Inquiring about a fabric's origins, manufacturing processes, and care requirements can provide valuable insights into its quality. Reputable sellers should be transparent about their fabrics, allowing informed decisions. Questions about dye fastness, shrinkage, and fabric treatment can also guide high-quality choices.

At Fabric Mill we’re completely transparent about our fabric and are available to answer any question you may have. For questions about a particular fabric, contact us, and we'll help you find the perfect fit.

Checklist for evaluating fabric quality

There are many things to take into account when choosing a good quality fabric. The table below outlines important fabric attributes, including benefits, and potential drawbacks, to guide you in selecting the best material for your needs.

Characteristic

Short description

Advantages

Disadvantages

Thread Count

The number of threads woven together per square inch.

Higher thread count fabrics are usually finer, smoother, and more durable, offering a luxurious feel.

Higher thread count fabrics can be more expensive and sometimes more delicate, requiring careful maintenance.

Fabric Weight

Measured in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²), indicating the fabric's heaviness.

Heavier fabrics tend to be more durable and suitable for specific projects, providing structure and warmth.

Heavier fabrics can be less breathable and uncomfortable in warmer conditions; may not be suitable for all types of garments.

Weave Complexity

The pattern in which threads are interlaced, including plain, twill, and satin.

Complex weaves can enhance the texture and appearance of fabric, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and durability.

More complex weaves may be more prone to snagging and can be more challenging to care for, requiring special maintenance.

Feel

The tactile quality of the fabric when touched.

Smooth and soft fabrics are more comfortable against the skin, indicating higher quality and care in production.

Finer, softer fabrics may wear out more quickly in high-use areas and might require more delicate washing conditions.

Stretch

The fabric's ability to stretch and return to its original shape.

High-quality stretch fabrics offer better fit, comfort, and durability, maintaining their shape over time.

Over time, stretch fabric can lose elasticity, leading to sagging and misshaping, especially if not cared for properly.

Transparency

The degree to which light passes through the fabric, indicates weave density.

Less transparent fabrics usually have a tighter weave, indicating higher quality and better durability.

Thicker, less transparent fabrics may lack the breathability and lightness desired for certain applications, like summer wear.

Label Information

Information is provided on the fabric label, including fiber content and care instructions.

Detailed and specific label information can hint at a fabric's quality and proper maintenance for longevity.

Misleading or incomplete label information can lead to improper care, reducing the fabric's lifespan and aesthetic appeal.

Weave consistency

The evenness and uniformity of the fabric's weave.

Consistent weaves indicate high-quality craftsmanship, adding to the fabric's durability and appearance.

Inconsistent weaves can lead to weaker spots in the fabric, reducing its strength and longevity.

Color Fastness

The fabric's ability to retain color without fading or bleeding.

Fabrics with good color fastness maintain their original appearance after washing and exposure to light.

Poor color fastness can result in fading, staining, or uneven color, especially after washing or prolonged exposure.

Final verdict: How to find a good quality fabric?

Evaluating fabric quality combines both technical knowledge with sensory evaluation. Factors such as fabric weight, transparency, and weave complexity all need to be taken into account. A quality fabric will not only enhance the aesthetics of your creations but will also ensure their longevity and comfort.

By understanding the key factors and applying the practical tips outlined in this article, you will be able to make informed choices and select the best fabrics for your projects. We encourage you to explore our extensive selection of high-quality fabrics designed to meet the needs of any project and budget. 

FAQ

What is the highest quality fabric?
The highest quality fabric depends on its intended use, but silk is often regarded as one of the finest due to its natural sheen, luxurious feel, and smooth texture. For home decor and upholstery, linen and wool are also considered top-tier because of their durability, breathability, and timeless appeal.

What questions should I ask a seller to determine fabric quality?
Ask about the fabric’s origin, fiber content, dye fastness, and care instructions. Inquire if the fabric has undergone any treatments or finishes and if there are recommendations for specific uses. 

What is the most durable fabric for upholstery?
The most durable fabric for upholstery is leather, known for its strength, longevity, and resistance to wear and tear. Other highly durable options include microfiber and canvas, both of which are resistant to stains, abrasion, and fading, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and everyday use. 

How can I test the quality of fabric before purchasing?
To test fabric quality, you can feel its texture, gently stretch it to check for elasticity, and hold it up to the light to assess transparency. Reading the label for fiber content and care instructions also helps determine the fabric’s quality.