With over four decades in the upholstery trade, I’ve come to understand that choosing the right fabric is as critical as the craftsmanship itself.
The fabric you select should not only complement the design of your piece but also stand up to its intended use, maintenance needs, and your lifestyle. Below is a guide I often share with clients when helping them make that decision:

1. Cotton

A timeless natural fibre, cotton offers breathability and comfort. I often recommend it for informal pieces like cushions, occasional chairs, and slipcovers. While it’s easy to clean and soft to the touch, it can wrinkle and fade over time — so it’s best used in areas with moderate wear.

2. Linen

Linen has a relaxed elegance that works beautifully in light-use settings. Its texture and drape are second to none, but be aware — it creases easily and needs more upkeep than other fabrics. Perfect for decorative chairs and drapery in quieter spaces.

3. Velvet

Few fabrics match the richness and depth of velvet. Ideal for statement pieces — a grand sofa, a tufted headboard, or an ottoman centrepiece — it brings luxury to any setting. Velvet is opulent, but be prepared for a bit more care to keep it looking its best.

4. Leather

For durability and enduring style, leather is a go-to. It ages gracefully, developing character over time, and is well-suited to high-use furniture like armchairs and recliners. It’s an investment — but one that pays dividends in both form and function.

5. Polyester

Modern polyester and its blends have come a long way. They’re hardwearing, stain-resistant, and remarkably versatile. Ideal for family homes, rentals, or any setting that demands easy care and longevity, polyester can mimic more delicate fibres without the fuss.

6. Microfiber

A personal favourite for family homes — microfiber is soft, highly stain-resistant, and forgiving. I recommend it often for sofas, recliners, and sectionals, especially in homes with young children or pets.

7. Chenille

Chenille brings warmth and a comforting texture. Its subtle sheen and softness make it a popular choice for cosy living rooms and bedroom furniture. Best used on pieces where comfort is king — like a loveseat or reading chair.

8. Silk

Silk, though delicate, is unmatched in refinement. Reserved for special occasions or low-traffic settings, I use silk primarily on decorative cushions, drapery, or occasional chairs in formal rooms. Handle with care, and it will reward you with sheer elegance.

9. Outdoor Fabrics

For exterior pieces, there’s no substitute for high-quality outdoor fabric. Brands like Sunbrella offer excellent UV, moisture, and mildew resistance. I’ve upholstered countless patio sets and garden benches in these fabrics, knowing they’ll hold up year after year.

10. Heavy-Duty & Contract Fabrics

In commercial or high-traffic environments, durability is paramount. Contract-grade vinyls, woven synthetics, and engineered blends are designed to withstand continual use — perfect for restaurants, hotels, offices, and busy communal areas.

Final Thoughts
When selecting fabric, always consider:

• How much wear the piece will get

• How easy it is to clean

• Whether it will fade or stain

• How it aligns with your aesthetic

I always recommend requesting fabric swatches before making a final choice. Feel it, see how it behaves in your space, and picture how it will age over time. Remember, upholstery is not just restoration — it’s transformation. Done right, it will add beauty, comfort, and value for decades to come.

Choosing to reupholster is a wise, sustainable investment. It’s typically more cost-effective than buying new, especially when you factor in quality and longevity. More importantly, it gives you full control to customise the look and feel — from the fabric and finish to the firmness of the seat — so it complements your home, your lifestyle, and your personal style

We specialise in upholstering a wide range of furniture, including chairs, sofas, benches, ottomans, headboards, and more. Whether it's antique, modern, indoor, or outdoor furniture, we can help.

Absolutely! We welcome customers to provide their own fabric. Our team can guide you on the suitable amount and type of fabric required for your project

Selecting the right fabric depends on factors like durability, color, pattern, and usage. Our experts can offer advice based on your needs and preferences.

The cost varies depending on factors like the type of furniture, fabric choice, and extent of work required. We provide detailed estimates after assessing the furniture in person or through photos.

The timeframe can vary based on the complexity of the project and our current workload. Generally, the process takes a few weeks. We aim to provide an accurate timeline during the estimation phase.

Yes, we offer pickup and delivery services to make the process more convenient for you. Contact us for details about this service.

Yes, our skilled craftsmen can repair and reinforce furniture frames if needed, ensuring a sturdy foundation for the new upholstery.

Reupholstering antique furniture can enhance both its appearance and value, especially if done with care to preserve its original character. We specialize in maintaining the integrity of antique pieces.

We take pride in the quality of our work. We offer a warranty on the craftsmanship to ensure your satisfaction.

You can get a quote by reaching out to us via phone, email, or our website's contact form. We also offer in-person consultations where we can discuss your project in detail.

Yes, do send out fabric swatches, we have an extensive fabric selection: including cotton, linen, velvet, leather, and more. Our expert consultants are here to guide you in selecting the perfect material for your project