Which material is stronger for the sofa. Which fabric is best for sofa upholstery. Best Upholstery for Country Living Rooms

Today, when choosing sofas, it is possible to take into account not only the size of the product, functionality and build quality, but also the quality of fabrics and upholstery covering the thing. Depending on the purpose of the sofa and its place in the interior of the apartment, we choose the optimal type of fabric.

Upholstery types: great variety

Modern technologies make it possible to create a large number of attractive aesthetically pleasing, wear-resistant options. How to navigate among the multitude types and choose your?

Leather and her "relatives"

Leather upholstery is a fairly old invention. Luxurious-looking, matte-shine leather sofas are always associated with classic interior... The advantages of leather are well known:

reliability and durability (will last for years);
respectable "appearance";
ease of cleaning (walk with a damp cloth or sponge - and the thing "shines" like new).

But there are also disadvantages:

if the leather is of low quality, this will very soon affect the appearance: it is rubbed, it goes with ugly cracks;
the range of colors of manufactured products is not wide, and the color of the thing may not fit into the style and color scheme of your interior;
high cost, not practical.

Artificial leather (leatherette) outwardly almost does not differ from the real one, it is sold in a huge number of options and has its advantages. It:

wear resistance comparable to genuine leather, more practical than real;
moisture resistance;
impermeability of odors, dirt (which is why leatherette is often used in public premises);
at high quality looks also expensive and respectable;
pleasant to the touch.

if the quality is questionable, it may crack;
usually plain;
subject to burnout as a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation;
combustible.

IMPORTANT. An article upholstered in leatherette has nothing to do near fireplaces and heating devices with an open spiral - it is fire hazardous!

Eco leather similar in characteristics to natural but created with a porous polymer applied to a cotton base. Its advantages:

resistant to wear;
"Breathes" - allows air to pass through;
has high ecological qualities.

Arpatek is a type of leatherette, often used to decorate car interiors. Also similar to the "original":

serves for a long time;
easy to clean - dirt can be removed easily soapy water, and it is advisable to purchase special means for caring for a leather car interior;
less slipping to the touch and as if warmer.

The disadvantages are the same as that of leatherette, and the main one is that it can crack.

IMPORTANT. Do not use chlorine-containing compounds for cleaning Arpatek, and do not get carried away with cleaners with alcohol. A categorical "no" to acetone and bleach!

Luxurious triad: tapestry, jacquard, chenille

These materials, due to their high cost and "pretentious" appearance, are preferred by people who want to make a certain impression on friends and guests.

The tapestry is distinguished by a variety of colors and an extensive assortment of patterns and ornaments. This is a flexible fabric suitable for furniture of any shape, the most intricate.

Tapestry advantages:

NS legacy and style, suitable for creating original interior solutions;
good resistance to deformation;
environmental friendliness;
easy to clean - stains are simply washed off, stubborn ones are removed with detergents (but not acidic and alkaline!), dry cleaning is possible.

Disadvantages:

do not need to be tested for strength with too frequent serious loads;
you should not be zealous with "wet" cleaning;
the product upholstered with tapestry should be protected from exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

IMPORTANT. The lower the content of cotton components in the fabric (it can be from 40% to 100) - the longer it will serve. But if you or loved ones suffer from allergies, you should choose a material with a maximum of natural fibers.

Jacquard is a complex fabric, based on the most complex interweaving of high-strength fibers, but an excellent result is evident: a variety of design, richness of shades. Pros of jacquard:

luxurious appearance;
sophistication;
excellent wear resistance.

But "beauty requires sacrifice." Minuses:

furniture covered with jacquard is more decorative than practical - it is not very pleasant to sleep on it: jacquard is hard, “scratching”, cold;
no wet and intensive cleaning - only dry, otherwise the canvas will lose color and presentability.

Chenille resembles a tapestry, but is created using a slightly different technology. It is sophisticated, attractive, but not too varied in terms of color shades. In terms of its advantages, it is again close to tapestry:

looks respectable;
does not deform;
differs in wear resistance;
environmentally friendly;
dust can be removed using a conventional vacuum cleaner.

Disadvantages:

if chenille is created not on a fabric, but on a glued base, it must be protected from moisture, absorbs easily, but dries for a long time, and dampness does not affect the appearance in the best way;
can also suffer from the claws of your pets - the threads are pulled out.

Scotchguard and Thermojackard

These are optimized versions of jacquard that are more resistant to wear and tear. Scotchguard is impregnated with transparent protective compound, thermohacquard is obtained by applying an ornament to the base under the influence of high temperatures. These jacquard varieties are designed for heavy use:

they have a long service life;
they are less polluted;
they can be washed gently with soap and oh rag, water with a temperature of no more than +40° C, then dry cleanusing a vacuum cleaner.

IMPORTANT. Do not use for cleaning abrasives, solvents and bleaches. Any aggressive solvent can damage the fabric.

Flock and

F lok, very similar to velvet is extremely popularen, and no wonder: he soft ok, nice, produced in a wide range of colors and shades... It has many advantages:

not prone to deformation;
retains the brilliance and brightness of shades for a long time;
resistant to rough influences (it is difficult to break and pierce, he is not afraid of the uncut claws of pets);
moisture resistance and, therefore, ease of care - it is easy to wash it;
environmental friendliness and hypoallergenicity;
does not fade from the sun.

There are also disadvantages:

subject to rapid abrasion - with active use, it will soon require replacement;
perfectly absorbs odors.

The courtesan, or Teflon flock, is a very recent invention, an improved version of the flock. The fibers of the fabric are protected with Teflon - and it:

has increased resistance to mechanical damage;
antistatic;
resistant to high temperatures;
water repellent.

Stains - even from ink and coffee - easily leave the courtesan, you can wash it with a sponge and soapy water, vacuum it.

Velor and ekovelor

Velor - cozy, very beautiful, varied in color schemes and pleasant to the touch, moreover natural in composition- cotton wool. Undoubted advantages:

environmental friendliness;
strength - velor is not deformed;
high thermal conductivity;
excellent ventilation ("breathes");
softness.

But the disadvantages are undeniable:

wipes quickly;
requires caution - strong dirt is perfectly absorbed and cannot be removed on its own;
absorbs odors

Ekovelure is an improved version of the "big brother". It is stronger and less abrasion, does not stretch or sag, has a water-repellent impregnation, does not fade.

"Washing" can be carried out at a temperature not exceeding 30 ° C, clean with a dry soft brush.

IMPORTANT... We do not clean ekovelor with aggressive chemicals!

Cotton

Simple, natural origin upholstery fabric, often with a protective impregnation to prevent paint abrasion and extend service life. Pros:

environmental friendliness;
excellent ventilation.

Minus one - short service life.

An adorable "lamb" material with a surface consisting of small dense nodules. Advantages:

cozy view;
increased "decorativeness";
low price.

Disadvantages:

susceptibility to damage - any sharp object will leave a tightening on the surface;
easy contamination due to porosity;
difficulty in cleaning - stains cannot be wiped off, so as not to damage the upholstery, just try to remove it with soapy water using a soft sponge. It is possible that it will not succeed.

Can be vacuumed and washed and non-corrosive detergents by means. No dry cleaning required!

Mostly made of polyester / cotton blends. Advantages:

hygroscopic - well resists dirt, moisture and odor absorption;
resistant to wiping, tear-resistant;
perfectly ventilated;
“Calmly” refers to the bright sun - it will not fade or fade;
hypoallergenic.

One of the varieties of microfiber is "micro-velor" called forest.

The disadvantage is not easy care: special compositions for washing, drying only natural, "airy". It is permissible to vacuum, to carry out a careful wet cleaning.

Use baking soda to remove stains. Fat can be removed detergent, it is possible to use alcohol solutions, vodka.

IMPORTANT. Do not use solvents! Also, do not iron the microfiber with an iron.

Choosing upholstery in different categories of rooms

The key to good preservation upholstered furniture- its choice, taking into account the characteristics of the room. It is clear that each room in the house has its own purpose, and sofas will experience different loads and influences. So which fabric is the most suitable?

To the living room

For the living room it is worth choosing upholstery material based on the lifestyle of the owners: if you spend relatively little time there and you almost never have guests, the following will do:

jacquard;
tapestry;
velours;
boucle;
sh enill.

If the living room is used for its intended purpose - to receive numerous relatives, friends, colleagues, and the sofa will be actively used, your choice is:

skin or any of its relatives;
thermojacquard;
scotchguard;
flock.

To the nursery

The choice for a nursery depends on the age and gender of the child. Kids, regardless of gender, are better off with a soft, but not afraid of damage and dirt surface: flock and chenille are very good. If in the future it is planned to haul furniture, cotton will do.

For neat girls velor, ekovelor, boucle, microfiber are suitable.

For active and violent boys, the best is artificial leather.

Into the kitchen

The upholstery of the kitchen sofa should not absorb odors, why do you need a piece of furniture that smells of several (separately quite fragrant) dishes at once - and not be afraid of contamination (even if you are neat and well coordinated - anything happens in the kitchen, splashes from cooking products and gas raid are inevitable ).

How to choose kitchen upholstery? You can safely recommend artificial leather and courtesans.

It is not uncommon for fabric stores to offer a table or book with information on fabrics. But the disadvantages of the type of fabric are rare there.

When buying a sofa, the question arises which fabric of the upholstery of the sofa is better to choose, because the life of the sofa will depend on its quality.

The choice of the right upholstery fabric primarily depends on how you plan to use the sofa. Here are some examples.

Living room sofa fabric... If the sofa is to be used as a place to sit and relax, for example, then first of all the upholstery of such a sofa must be resistant to dirt and mechanical stress. Who does not like to eat while sitting on the sofa at the TV screen, but here it is simply - distracted by a match or a favorite TV series and "OPS" - a piece of cutlet with ketchup instead of a mouth was sent to the upholstery of the sofa. And friends with beer and fish, and a beloved cat or dog. Everyone wants to stain your favorite sofa, it's good when the fabric is not afraid of it. For intense loads, fabrics made of synthetic fibers are well suited. They are easy to clean and do not absorb odors and dirt.

Sofa upholstery fabric for sleeping... Another use case for a sofa is an organization sofa. sleeping place... Such a sofa is not used as intensively as a sofa from the living room, and therefore for its upholstery, criteria that ensure a comfortable rest and sleep are more important. Sofa fabric for sleeping is preferred from natural materials or at least 50% natural fibers in upholstery fabrics. Flock fabric is not bad for a sleeping sofa. It does not lint and does not cause allergies, keeps its shape well and is suitable for daily use.

Fabric for the sofa in the nursery... The fabric of a children's sofa should be resistant to intense dirt. Toddlers love to improvise - paints and glue and a turtle with a hamster on the sofa are used here, But besides being resistant to dirt, the fabric should not cause allergies, and, if possible, be natural. Often cotton is used as upholstery on children's sofas. True, all natural fabrics do not tolerate dirt well. As a way out, you can treat a sofa made of natural fabric with a special protective Teflon impregnation.

Fabric for upholstery sofa in the kitchen-dining room... The upholstery of such a sofa should not absorb kitchen odors; it should be easy to clean and repel grease and dirt. Faux leather upholstery will do a good job with this task. Fabrics with absorbent surfaces are contraindicated for kitchens.

I hope the principle of choosing the best fabric has become clear to you.

How to properly assess the quality of fabric for upholstery sofa

From qualitative concepts - good fabric or not very much I will move on to a more important one - a quantitative assessment system.

There are generally accepted characteristics by which you can judge the quality of the fabric of the sofa. The fabrics are tested by specialized independent companies. The result of their tests is digital indicators of various characteristics of tissues.

Fabric manufacturers usually indicate the parameters of the tests of their products in the quality data sheet. When buying, you can ask the seller for it.

I will not dwell on the test methods in detail, but will only give their results. I have collected the data into a small table

The main characteristics of fabrics that affect their performance

Fabric characteristic	unit of measurement	Badly	Average	Good	Fine
Wear resistance-determines the abrasion resistance of the fabric. In the test, the fabric is rubbed in a circular motion. Often in fabric passports, this indicator is called the Martindale test.	number of revolutions	≥ 15 000	≥ 20 000	≥ 30 000	≥ 40 000
Density of fabric - the indicator is very important. Determines the number of threads in the fabric per centimeter. The higher the density of the fabric, the higher the quality it is.	gram per square meter	less than 200	200-300	350-400	more than 450
Rolling (pilling) determines the formation of pellets on the fabric. In the test, the fabric is subjected to tight abrasion and is evaluated after 5000 revolutions.	pilling scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2 points	3-4 points	5 points
Seam strength. Ability of seams to withstand tensile stress. The sewn fabrics are stretched.	stretch in mm.	≥ 7 mm.	5-6 mm.	3-4 mm.	1-2 mm.
Tensile and tensile strength of fabric... Characterizes the force that must be applied to tear the tissue when stretched to the sides	force (in N) and tissue elongation in%	350 N more than 80%	350 N 60-70%	350 N 45-50%	350 N less than 40%
Color fastness to friction... Determines the ability of a fabric to retain color when rubbed dry and wet	friction scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2 points	3-4 points	5 points
Color fastness to light... Ability of fabric to retain color upon impact sunlight	light scale from 1 to 8	1 point	2-3 points	4 points	≥ 5 points
Color fastness to dry cleaning... Describes the ability of a fabric to retain color when dry cleaned	scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2-3 points	4 points	5 points
Fire resistance of fabric is her ability to resist open fire... The higher the number, the better. Keep in mind that fire resistance classes are in order from 1 - best to 5 worst.	Class	Grade 5	4th grade	2-3 classes	1 class

I would also like to highlight Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified... This is a European certificate that is issued only if there are no fabrics prohibited in the European Union. harmful substances... The presence of the certificate indicates the environmental safety of the fabric

Now you can evaluate the quality of fabric for a sofa using a system of characteristics and can compare different fabrics between themselves.

You can proceed to the consideration of upholstery fabrics and their properties.

Before the review, I want to draw your attention to the fact that and depends on the type and quality of the upholstery fabric. After all, the fabric, along with the filler, helps to keep this shape.

Chenille

The name of the fabric comes from the name of the thread that is part of the fabric. Chenille ("chenille" - French caterpillar). The thread looks like a furry caterpillar, has a soft rounded surface. Chenille yarn, for the production of fabric, is made by twisting dense threads with a chenille thread .. As a result, an inextensible thread is obtained, which determines the properties of the future fabric. Chenille has a complex composition (natural and synthetic fibers), about 50% cotton, 50% synthetics. Chenille fabric with split pile is very dense and durable. The pile of the fabric can be combed on a special machine.

Chenille can have two types of stems:

Fabric base- such a base is moisture resistant and can withstand wet cleaning. The disadvantage of such a base is that it is not recommended to sleep on it all the time. Chenille with a fabric base from long-term stress can wrinkle and lose shape.
Glued base- such a base is afraid of wet cleaning. Due to water, such fabric can deform, and after cleaning, the fabric will take a very long time to dry.

Chenille virtues

It has high wear resistance due to the presence of synthetic fibers.
In terms of environmental properties, it is close to natural fabrics.
Dust from chenille upholstery can be easily removed with a vacuum cleaner, soft brush or sponge

Disadvantages of chenille

The disadvantages include not a rich color gamut of fabric, although it is quite acceptable for a moderate interior.
When buying, it is very difficult to find out what is the basis of the selected chenille. As a result, you can buy a fabric that is not suitable for your purposes.
The fabric does not tolerate the effects of pet claws - the threads can be pulled out

Matting

The mat is a dense fabric with a fine texture. Usually monochromatic. The characteristic difference between the mat is the presence of thick fibers and rather coarse weaving of threads. The fabric has increased elasticity and for a long time absolutely does not wrinkle, perfectly keeps its shape. Caring for the mat is simple, there is no need to use special solutions and other means.

Advantages of matting

High strength and wear resistance
Ease of care

Disadvantages of matting

Weak color gamut

Velours

Velvety, pleasant to the touch, soft fabric. The pile can be placed vertically throughout the fabric or on selected sites smoothed to one side. The pile is trimmed with embossing, combed according to a stencil or laid in the form of various patterns, therefore velor can be smooth, shaped, embossed, etc. Cotton and woolen velors are used for upholstery of upholstered furniture.

Advantages of velor

Ease of care of this fabric is achieved through the use of high-tech fibers in its composition, which have antistatic and anti-allergenic properties.
Velor has a very high abrasion threshold, any dirt can be easily removed from the surface of the fabric, which allows this fabric to be used for many years.

Disadvantages of velor

High price
Low resistance to mechanical point loads. Animal claws, pricks, etc.

Flock (substitute for velvet)

This is an upholstery fabric with a polyester and cotton backing (usually 35% cotton, 65% synthetic), on which the pile is electrostatically applied. First, a canvas is made of cotton thread of rare plain weave ("mesh"). It is impregnated with glue and stretched in an electromagnetic field, where pile is sprayed onto it. The result is a neutral white pile fabric. Then the fabric is dyed by printing.

Flock advantages

Keeps the shape constant
Easy to clean.
Good light fastness
Has water-repellent properties
Has a dense structure
Good anti-static properties - dust-resistant
Durability of paint; brightness of colors
Health safety.

Teflon flock (courtesan)

Modern type of upholstery fabric. Refers to fabrics of a new generation. The fibers of the fabric have Teflon protection at the molecular level. Thanks to the presence of Teflon, the courtesan tolerates dirt very well. easy to clean. One of the qualities of this fabric is its good resistance to pet claws. If you have animals in your house, take a closer look at the Teflon flock sofas.

Tapestry

One of those natural natural upholstery fabrics. The tapestry is distinguished by the correct interweaving of yarn with a figure or ornamental composition and many different shades and colors. The tapestry is washable, practical, durable and pleasant to the touch. The ability of the fabric to take almost any shape, its plasticity, allow it to be used everywhere: on upholstered furniture, chairs, walls, in various decorative elements.

The virtues of tapestry

Naturalness
Attractive appearance

Disadvantages of tapestry

Low resistance to intense loads
Does not tolerate wet and intensive cleaning
High price

Jacquard

Fabric with a complex pattern of a large report (vertical and horizontal repetition of the pattern). This is achieved by weaving the longitudinal and transverse warp threads in a predetermined order. According to the composition of raw materials, the fabric can be homogeneous or mixed, for example, polyester with viscose, cotton or acrylic. Jacquard is one of the most expensive fabrics. Such fabrics are very strong and durable, not whimsical to use. Jacquard is used for upholstery of expensive furniture.

The advantages of jacquard

Has high strength and durability.
Has a wide range of colors. Looks expensive and individual

Disadvantages of jacquard

The high cost of the material. You have to pay for beauty.
The fabric does not like intensive cleaning. Due to diligence during cleaning, the fabric may discolor.

Thermojackard and Scotchguard

These upholstery are refined jacquards.

Thermojacquard obtained by thermal dyeing of jacquard. The pattern is transferred to the primary tissue under the influence of high temperature. The result is a stable fabric surface.

Scotchguard This is a jacquard covered with a transparent impregnation, which creates a protective film on the fabric, protecting it from dirt and wear, while retaining all the aesthetic charm of jacquard. Scotchguard works well on sofas with very heavy use, such as a sofa in a living room.

Boucle

The boucle fabric looks like a sheared lamb. Boucle translated from French means curl. Characteristic feature this tissue is the presence of dense nodules protruding on the surface of the tissue. The fabric has original decorative view... A particularly decorative effect is achieved through the use of threads of different colors. Boucle is a fairly durable material.

The virtues of boucle

Original appearance
Low price

Disadvantages of boucle

Afraid of sharp objects. Contact may result in puffs on the fabric.
Due to the porous surface, the fabric is quite easily soiled
In case of contamination, it is required to immediately remove the stains with a clean cloth and mild soap;
It is not recommended to rub the stains, it is necessary to get wet, then (if necessary) treat with soapy water using a soft sponge and blot again with a clean cloth.

A natural skin

Genuine leather is the main facing material for the manufacture of high-quality, "prestigious" upholstered furniture.

Advantages of genuine leather

Prestigious appearance.
Effective and durable in operation.
Durable, not afraid of prolonged loads
Easy to clean.

Disadvantages of genuine leather

High price
And perhaps the fact that it is not very comfortable to sit on a leather sofa without clothes.

Artificial leather (leatherette, leatherette)

Material with one-sided monolithic or porous PVC coating on cotton and polyester knitted bases. Artificial leather is not inferior in performance characteristics to natural leather, it is a fairly wear-resistant material intended both for household furniture and for furniture in public premises.

Advantages of artificial leather

High resistance to dirt and stress.
The surface does not absorb odors and dirt
Cleans well

Disadvantages of artificial leather

Solid colors
Fears sun rays and high temperatures
It is not comfortable to sit without outerwear, especially in hot and cold weather

Eco leather

This type of fabric is very similar to natural leather, and is not inferior to it in terms of environmental friendliness.

This material is obtained by applying a porous polyurethane to a base of dense cotton fabric. The result is a fabric that is resistant to wear and temperature with a breathable surface that allows air to pass through well, which contributes to its impeccable environmental friendliness.

The surface texture resembles natural leather both in appearance and in tactile sensations. The only significant difference is the price. Eco-leather is several times cheaper than natural leather.

Arpatek

This material was originally developed for car seat upholstery.

Arpatek belongs to the category of artificial leather. The fabric has unique characteristics in lightfastness, abrasion resistance, tensile strength, it feels like leather with a perfect finish. The materials for the manufacture of arpatek are viscose, cotton and polyurethane in proportions of 42% -33% -25%.

Microfiber (artificial or furniture suede)

A modern analogue of natural suede. Introduced in 1976 in Japan, the fabric has a low pile surface and a structure composed of many micro pores. Due to micro pores, the fabric has high strength and performance characteristics.

As a rule, microfiber is coated with Teflon impregnation to create a protective film on the surface of the fabric, which gives it good characteristics in terms of resistance to abrasion and stress. The material does not fade, and repels dirt and grease.

Microfiber is perfect for sofas with heavy loads - in the living room or children's rooms

Cotton

Natural material. It dyes well and breathes. The main disadvantage of cotton is its short service life. To improve the characteristics of cotton, manufacturers coat it with an impregnation that prevents paint wiping and premature wear. Cotton is most often used for children's sofas. Firstly, an environmentally friendly and child-friendly material, and a short service life will require replacement along with the changed needs of an older child. A sofa for growth.

Well, now Go for it!

When buying a sofa, the question arises which fabric of the upholstery of the sofa is better to choose, because the life of the sofa will depend on its quality.

The choice of the right upholstery fabric primarily depends on how you plan to use the sofa. Here are some examples.

Sofa upholstery fabric for sleeping... Another example of using a sofa is a sofa for organizing a sleeping place. Such a sofa is not used as intensively as a sofa from the living room, and therefore for its upholstery, criteria that ensure a comfortable rest and sleep are more important. The fabric of the sofa for sleeping is preferable from natural materials, or at least in the composition of the upholstery fabric, natural fibers should be at least 50%. Flock fabric is not bad for a sleeping sofa. It does not lint and does not cause allergies, keeps its shape well and is suitable for daily use.

I hope the principle of choosing the best fabric has become clear to you.

How to properly assess the quality of fabric for upholstery sofa

From qualitative concepts - good fabric or not very much I will move on to a more important one - a quantitative assessment system.

Fabric manufacturers usually indicate the parameters of the tests of their products in the quality data sheet. When buying, you can ask the seller for it.

I will not dwell on the test methods in detail, but will only give their results. I have collected the data into a small table

The main characteristics of fabrics that affect their performance

Fabric characteristic	unit of measurement	Badly	Average	Good	Fine
Wear resistance-determines the abrasion resistance of the fabric. In the test, the fabric is rubbed in a circular motion. Often in fabric passports, this indicator is called the Martindale test.	number of revolutions	≥ 15 000	≥ 20 000	≥ 30 000	≥ 40 000
Density of fabric - the indicator is very important. Determines the number of threads in the fabric per centimeter. The higher the density of the fabric, the higher the quality it is.	gram per square meter	less than 200	200-300	350-400	more than 450
Rolling (pilling) determines the formation of pellets on the fabric. In the test, the fabric is subjected to tight abrasion and is evaluated after 5000 revolutions.	pilling scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2 points	3-4 points	5 points
Seam strength. Ability of seams to withstand tensile stress. The sewn fabrics are stretched.	stretch in mm.	≥ 7 mm.	5-6 mm.	3-4 mm.	1-2 mm.
Tensile and tensile strength of fabric... Characterizes the force that must be applied to tear the tissue when stretched to the sides	force (in N) and tissue elongation in%	350 N more than 80%	350 N 60-70%	350 N 45-50%	350 N less than 40%
Color fastness to friction... Determines the ability of a fabric to retain color when rubbed dry and wet	friction scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2 points	3-4 points	5 points
Color fastness to light... The ability of fabrics to retain color when exposed to sunlight	light scale from 1 to 8	1 point	2-3 points	4 points	≥ 5 points
Color fastness to dry cleaning... Describes the ability of a fabric to retain color when dry cleaned	scale from 1 to 5	1 point	2-3 points	4 points	5 points
Fire resistance of fabric, it is her ability to withstand open fire. The higher the number, the better. Keep in mind that fire resistance classes are in order from 1 - best to 5 worst.	Class	Grade 5	4th grade	2-3 classes	1 class

I would also like to highlight Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified... This is a European certificate that is issued only in the absence of harmful substances prohibited in the European Union in the fabrics. The presence of the certificate indicates the environmental safety of the fabric

Now you can evaluate the quality of fabric for a sofa using a system of characteristics and can compare different fabrics with each other.

You can proceed to the consideration of upholstery fabrics and their properties.

Before the review, I want to draw your attention to the fact that and depends on the type and quality of the upholstery fabric. After all, the fabric, along with the filler, helps to keep this shape.

Chenille

Chenille can have two types of stems:

Fabric base- such a base is moisture resistant and can withstand wet cleaning. The disadvantage of such a base is that it is not recommended to sleep on it all the time. Chenille with a fabric base from long-term stress can wrinkle and lose shape.
Glued base- such a base is afraid of wet cleaning. Due to water, such fabric can deform, and after cleaning, the fabric will take a very long time to dry.

Chenille virtues

It has high wear resistance due to the presence of synthetic fibers.
In terms of environmental properties, it is close to natural fabrics.
Dust from chenille upholstery can be easily removed with a vacuum cleaner, soft brush or sponge

Disadvantages of chenille

The disadvantages include not a rich color gamut of fabric, although it is quite acceptable for a moderate interior.
When buying, it is very difficult to find out what is the basis of the selected chenille. As a result, you can buy a fabric that is not suitable for your purposes.
The fabric does not tolerate the effects of pet claws - the threads can be pulled out

Matting

Advantages of matting

High strength and wear resistance
Ease of care

Disadvantages of matting

Weak color gamut

Velours

Velvety, pleasant to the touch, soft fabric. The pile can be positioned vertically throughout the fabric or smoothed to one side in selected areas. The pile is trimmed with embossing, combed according to a stencil or laid in the form of various patterns, therefore velor can be smooth, shaped, embossed, etc. Cotton and woolen velors are used for upholstery of upholstered furniture.

Advantages of velor

Ease of care of this fabric is achieved through the use of high-tech fibers in its composition, which have antistatic and anti-allergenic properties.
Velor has a very high abrasion threshold, any dirt can be easily removed from the surface of the fabric, which allows this fabric to be used for many years.

Disadvantages of velor

High price
Low resistance to mechanical point loads. Animal claws, pricks, etc.

Flock (substitute for velvet)

Flock advantages

Keeps the shape constant
Easy to clean.
Good light fastness
Has water-repellent properties
Has a dense structure
Good anti-static properties - dust-resistant
Durability of paint; brightness of colors
Health safety.

Teflon flock (courtesan)

Tapestry

The virtues of tapestry

Naturalness
Attractive appearance

Disadvantages of tapestry

Low resistance to intense loads
Does not tolerate wet and intensive cleaning
High price

Jacquard

The advantages of jacquard

Has high strength and durability.
Has a wide range of colors. Looks expensive and individual

Disadvantages of jacquard

The high cost of the material. You have to pay for beauty.
The fabric does not like intensive cleaning. Due to diligence during cleaning, the fabric may discolor.

Thermojackard and Scotchguard

These upholstery are refined jacquards.

Thermojacquard obtained by thermal dyeing of jacquard. The pattern is transferred to the primary tissue under the influence of high temperature. The result is a stable fabric surface.

Boucle

The boucle fabric looks like a sheared lamb. Boucle translated from French means curl. A characteristic feature of this tissue is the presence of dense nodules protruding on the surface of the tissue. The fabric has an original decorative look. A particularly decorative effect is achieved through the use of threads of different colors. Boucle is a fairly durable material.

The virtues of boucle

Original appearance
Low price

Disadvantages of boucle

Afraid of sharp objects. Contact may result in puffs on the fabric.
Due to the porous surface, the fabric is quite easily soiled
In case of contamination, it is required to immediately remove the stains with a clean cloth and mild soap;
It is not recommended to rub the stains, it is necessary to get wet, then (if necessary) treat with soapy water using a soft sponge and blot again with a clean cloth.

A natural skin

Genuine leather is the main facing material for the manufacture of high-quality, "prestigious" upholstered furniture.

Advantages of genuine leather

Prestigious appearance.
Effective and durable in operation.
Durable, not afraid of prolonged loads
Easy to clean.

Disadvantages of genuine leather

High price
And perhaps the fact that it is not very comfortable to sit on a leather sofa without clothes.

Artificial leather (leatherette, leatherette)

Advantages of artificial leather

High resistance to dirt and stress.
The surface does not absorb odors and dirt
Cleans well

Disadvantages of artificial leather

Solid colors
Afraid of sunlight and high temperatures
It is not comfortable to sit without outerwear, especially in hot and cold weather

Eco leather

This type of fabric is very similar to natural leather, and is not inferior to it in terms of environmental friendliness.

The surface texture resembles natural leather both in appearance and in tactile sensations. The only significant difference is the price. Eco-leather is several times cheaper than natural leather.

Arpatek

This material was originally developed for car seat upholstery.

Arpatek belongs to the category of artificial leather. The fabric has unique characteristics in terms of light resistance, abrasion resistance, tensile strength. It feels like leather with a perfect finish. The materials for the manufacture of arpatek are viscose, cotton and polyurethane in proportions of 42% -33% -25%.

Microfiber (artificial or furniture suede)

Microfiber is perfect for sofas with heavy loads - in the living room or children's rooms

Cotton

Well, now Go for it!

When buying upholstered furniture, more and more often people pay attention not to its functionality, practicality, but to the material from which the upholstery is made. This is a material that is mounted on top of sofas and armchairs. When choosing it, it is necessary to take into account some points - the quality of the fabric, resistance to wear, cost. Very often it is necessary to decide on the upholstery not only when buying new furniture, but when re-tightening the old one, when its old fabric has already lost its aesthetic appearance.

Types and categories of fabrics

Today, the assortment of fabrics for finishing a sofa is huge. Manufacturers offer their customers natural and artificial fabrics.

Chenille

The material received this name because of the thread that was included in the fabric. It looks like a furry caterpillar, it is characterized by a soft, rounded surface. The fabric production process is carried out by twisting dense threads with chenille threads. Thus, it is possible to create an inextensible thread, which will set the properties of the future material. Chenilla contains equal amounts of cotton and synthetics.

The fabric is distinguished by its density and strength. The fleece of the pile can be done using a special machine. The cost of the material is 680 rubles per running meter.

Chenille is divided into two types:

Fabric base. The fabric will be resistant to moisture, therefore it is able to withstand wet cleaning. The downside of the fabric is that you can't sleep on it all the time. Because of this, it will wrinkle and lose its shape.
Glued base. This material is afraid of moisture, as it can deform, and after cleaning it dries for a long time.

The advantages of the fabric include:

resistance to wear due to the presence of synthetic threads in the composition;
ecological properties are close to natural substances;
You can remove dust from the chenille packing with a conventional vacuum cleaner.

The material is not devoid of disadvantages, which include:

the color scheme does not differ in its variety, but for a moderate style, you can choose several options;
the material is afraid of the influence of the claws of pets, as the threads will be pulled out.

Matting

This fabric is characterized by a fine texture. Most often it is monochromatic. Its peculiarity is that the fibers for the matting are made of a thick dense structure, and the weaving of the threads is done roughly. The canvas is characterized by increased elasticity, since it does not wrinkle during the day, perfectly retaining its shape. Caring for the mat is also not difficult, since there is no need to use special solutions.

The advantages of the fabric include high strength properties, wear resistance, ease of maintenance. But the disadvantages are the lack of a wide range of colors. The cost of the material is 270 per running meter.

Velours

This material is characterized by its velvety and tactile surface. The pile can be arranged vertically along the entire canvas or in some areas laid on one side. Velor based on cotton and wool is used to decorate the sofa. detailed description velor furniture fabric.

The advantages of matter include:

ease of care, since it contains high-tech fibers with anti-allergenic and antistatic qualities;
velor is characterized by a high abrasion threshold, and any dirt can be easily removed, thanks to which the fabric has a long wear life.

The disadvantages of the material include high cost, low resistance to mechanical stress. The cost of velor will be 340 rubles per meter.

Flock

This finishing material is obtained using polyester and cotton. A pile is applied to the surface of the canvas using an electrostatic method. First, a canvas is made from cotton threads, and then it is impregnated with glue. In the photo - flock upholstery fabric:

When she is stretched out in electric field spray on the pile. The fabric is dyed by printing. The cost of the fabric is 390 rubles per running meter.

Flock has the following advantages:

keeps its shape for a long time;
ease of care;
excellent light fastness;
characterized by water-repellent properties;
has a high density;
the duration of the paint and the brightness of the shade;
environmental friendliness.

Teflon flock

This type of material belongs to modern ones. The fibers of the fabric are equipped with a Teflon protection, so that the fabric for the upholstery can be washed and removed from dirt. The peculiarity of the fabric is that it has excellent resistance to the bones of pets. The material can be purchased at a price of 480 rubles per meter.

Tapestry

This is a natural fabric that differs from others in its correct weaving of yarn with a figure or ornament. In the assortment, the material has a lot of colors and shades. The fabric is washable, durable, tactile and practical. Since the canvas can take any shape, has excellent plasticity, it can be used to decorate absolutely any furniture.

The advantages of tapestry include its aesthetic appearance and naturalness. But the disadvantages: low resistance to frequent loads, fear of wet and frequent cleaning and high cost. The cost of the fabric will be 450 rubles per running meter.

Jacquard

The advantages include a wide selection of shades, high strength and durability. The disadvantage is the high cost, fear of intensive cleaning, as a result of which it can lose its color tightly. The cost of the fabric is 560 rubles per running meter.

Thermojackard and Scotchguard

These types of material belong to the improved types of jacquard. To obtain a thermohaccard, a thermal dyeing method is used. The ornament is transferred to the base under the influence of high temperature. Thus, it is possible to obtain a stable surface of the fabric. The cost is 550 rubles per running meter.

Scotchguard is a jacquard that is impregnated with a transparent compound on top to protect it from wear and tear. At the same time, the aesthetic appearance of the canvas is fully preserved. It is advisable to use the material for sofas that are exposed to intensive use. The cost is 500 rubles per running meter.

Boucle

This type of material is similar to a sheared lamb. The peculiarity of the canvas is that in its structure it is presented in the form of dense nodules that protrude above the surface. The material has an original decorative look. Aesthetic appearance is achieved through the use of threads different shades... Boucle is a very durable material. You can buy fabric at a price of 660 rubles per running meter.

The advantages include the original look and low price. Of the minuses, you can undo:

fear of sharp objects, upon contact with which puffs may form;
because of its porosity, the matter is easily soiled;
it is difficult to remove dirt;
stains should not be rubbed, it is worth getting slightly wet, and then treat with soapy water using a soft sponge.

A natural skin

This kind finishing material used for cladding expensive and high-quality furniture. Its advantages include attractive appearance, durability, strength and ease of cleaning. The disadvantages are the high cost. Purchase material at the price of 2000 rubles r.m.

Artificial leather

This fabric is characterized by the presence of one-sided monolithic or porous PVC cover... It is based on cotton and polyester knitted threads. Leatherette in terms of its performance is not inferior to natural leather. It has a high resistance to wear and tear, and it can be used when facing a sofa for domestic or public use.

The positive qualities of the material include resistance to stress and dirt, ease of cleaning and not absorbing odors and dirt. Artificial leather has disadvantages - it is a monochromatic surface, fear of sunlight and high temperatures. The cost is 430 rubles per running meter.

Eco leather

This type of material is similar to natural leather and is not inferior to it even in terms of environmental friendliness. To obtain the material, a method of applying porous polyurethane to a cotton base is used. Thus, it is possible to create a fabric that is resistant to wear, has a breathable surface and high environmental qualities. The cost is 670 rubles per running meter.

Arpatek

Previously, this material was used for finishing car seats. Arpatek is a type of artificial leather. It is resistant to light, abrasion and has high tensile strength. In the manufacture of the material, cotton, viscose and polyurethane are used. You can buy the material at a price of 4,000 rubles per running meter.

Cotton

This is a natural fabric that breathes and lends itself to dyeing. The disadvantage of cotton is its short service life. To enhance the characteristics of the fabric, manufacturers apply a protective impregnation to its surface. It prevents paint from rubbing off and extends its service life.

Most often, cotton is used when decorating sofas in a children's room. This is due to the fact that the material is environmentally friendly and completely safe for children. And the short service life requires replacing the canvas along with the changed needs of the grown baby. The cost of the fabric is 230 rubles per running meter. the varieties of cotton fabric are described.

Which fabric is better

When choosing a material for finishing a sofa, it is necessary to take into account the room in which the furniture will be installed. If you need to transform the interior in a children's room, then you should choose natural canvases. This can include linen or cotton. The option with flock is still quite popular, because then the sofa can be cleaned and washed to remove various contaminants.

If the upholstery is made for furniture installed in the living room, then you need to pay attention to materials with high wear resistance. If the sofa acts as a sleeping place, then any material can be used, except for leather, since it is uncomfortable to be on it without clothes.

On the video, how much fabric is needed for the upholstery of the sofa:

How to calculate the quantity

calculation measures to determine the amount of fabric for finishing the sofa are not difficult. First, it is recommended to remove the old upholstery, take a tape measure and take all measurements. If the details of the sofa have an irregular shape, then they will have to be measured in the longest and widest parts.

Now fold all the vertical dimensions of the sofa elements and add 20% to them. The resulting value is the required length of the fabric in cm. And to determine the width, it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the widest part, most often the facing materials have a width of 130-150 cm.

To determine the amount of material for the pillows on the sofa, you need to measure their length and height. Add these values and multiply by 2. Add 5 cm to the calculated value.

A sofa in micro velor upholstery fabric is in great demand in any store. The reasons for this are its increased durability, practicality, and a pleasant-to-touch surface. In addition, the price of micro velor is not overpriced, it belongs to the middle price category. It is hypoallergenic, as it does not retain dust, and antistatic, which only adds to its advantages.

Flock is the most common type of fabric for upholstery. It is attractive and durable, easy to clean. Such material is very resistant to mechanical stress, which is very important for pet owners.

But when choosing which fabric is more practical for upholstery: flock or micro-velor, you need to take into account that flock also has one drawback - it strongly absorbs various odors. So it is better to use it for hauling furniture in the living room rather than in the kitchen.

Perfect software outward appearance option is genuine leather. The drawing can be absolutely anything. And the quality is the same for any leather sofa when it comes to choosing really high quality leather.

Such furniture looks very solid, noble and rich, it is simple and easy to clean, durable. The only drawback of this upholstery is the high price.

However, you can find a similar option at a lower price if you choose leatherette or eco-leather, which is popular today. Outwardly, a cheaper sofa will practically not differ from an expensive one, but this will affect the quality.

Attention!

After a while, fake leather on upholstered furniture will begin to crack and wear off, which will give it an inappropriate look.

A good option upholstery for natural fabrics – it's cotton. It is harmless and not toxic at all, it is breathable and absorbs moisture. Ideal for furniture in a children's room.

A significant drawback of natural cotton is quick wear. But manufacturers often get rid of this "minus" when they cover cotton sofas with special compounds in order to increase the wear life and prevent color loss.

Jacquard will look very beautiful and elegant. It is quite dense, practically does not wear out and does not lose color, and is durable. An even better option is stretch jacquard.

To all previous positive characteristics you can add such a feature as debris and dust that does not stick to the surface due to special substances that cover the material.

Not everyone can afford upholstery made of jacquard or stretch jacquard due to the high price.

Jacquard furniture scotchguard with all kinds of prints is quite popular for frameless furniture: Newspaper, Travel, Patchwork and others.

A fine blend of artificial and natural fibers is a fabric called chenille, which is very common in upholstery.
It gives the sofa a rather aesthetic look, allows you to make the interior of the room more comfortable, thanks to the pleasant fleecy surface. Chenille is very durable and easy to clean, dirty surfaces can be easily cleaned with a regular vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth or sponge.

Silk is unusual for upholstered furniture; this option is extremely rare in stores. But when hauling an old sofa in your house or apartment, nothing prevents you from using it.

The silk sofa fits well into the corresponding interior, which most often looks refined, solid and luxurious. The surface of such furniture is very pleasant for the body, strong enough and safe due to its hypoallergenic and antistatic properties.

Tapestry has been in use for centuries. No wonder that tapestry furniture is often found in antique shops and apartments with vintage interiors.

Tapestry is strong and durable, colors and patterns are diverse, it is durable. But the surface easily burns out when exposed to direct sunlight, so you should not put such a sofa next to a window.

Arpatek is a fabric that was not originally planned for residential use. Manufacturers have recommended using it in the manufacture of car covers, so it is maximally resistant to abrasion.

Arpatek looks like leather, has remarkable characteristics - it is not exposed to mechanical stress, does not lose color when exposed to light, moisture resistant and easy to clean.