Let’s talk about something that comes up in almost every project: fabric.
We’re often asked why we choose certain upholstery fabrics over others, and the answer is always the same: real life.
A fabric might look beautiful on a swatch, but if it doesn’t hold up to everyday use, it’s not the right choice.
When we’re selecting upholstery, we’re thinking about durability and how it wears over time, cleanability because life happens, texture and feel, and how the fabric will age.
You may hear terms like performance fabric or see things like high rub counts. While those are helpful, what matters most is how the fabric is constructed and how it will live in your home.
One of the biggest misconceptions we see is around fabric protection. Many people assume adding a protectant like Scotchgard is always a good idea.
In reality, most upholstery manufacturers now advise against it. In many cases, applying an aftermarket protectant can void your warranty and may even cause the fabric to break down over time.
Some fabrics are engineered with performance finishes built in, while others are not. Applying additional chemicals without understanding the material can interfere with the integrity of the fibers and shorten the life of the fabric rather than extend it.
This is where understanding cleaning codes becomes essential. Each fabric is different, and proper care will always have a greater impact on longevity than any spray-on treatment.
When we’re selecting fabrics for our clients, we go into a great deal of study and consideration. We look at composition, construction, durability ratings, and how the fabric will perform in real life, not just how it looks in a sample.
Our goal is always to select materials that are both beautiful and durable.
Because at the end of the day, longevity matters.
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