Choosing the right upholstery fabric is one of the most important steps when recovering chairs, sofas, bedheads, or dining seats. The look, feel, durability, and cleanability of your fabric will directly affect the long-term success of your project.
At Home Upholsterer, we stock a wide selection of quality upholstery fabrics — from high-performance synthetics to natural fibres, bold statement prints to neutral commercial tones. We also carry clearance fabrics and swatches from top brands, including:
- Warwick Fabrics
- Profile Fabrics
- Charles Parsons
- Wortley Group
- James Dunlop Textiles
🛒 Visit our Sydney showroom to browse the full range or shop online with fast shipping Australia-wide.
What to Consider When Choosing Upholstery Fabric
🧵 1. Durability & Fabric Rating
Look for upholstery fabric that’s been rub tested or rated for wear and tear — especially for high-traffic pieces like sofas or dining chairs. Common industry terms:
- Martindale / Wyzenbeek rating – tests abrasion resistance
- Heavy domestic or commercial grade – best for longevity
- Tightly woven or blended fibres – resist pilling and sagging
🎨 2. Colour & Pattern Choice
Think about how the fabric will interact with your space:
- Light colours show stains more easily
- Dark colours can hide wear but may fade in sunlight
- Patterns and textures are great for hiding minor imperfections
For statement pieces, choose bold prints or rich textures. For timeless appeal, opt for neutral tones in a high-quality plain weave or chenille.
🧼 3. Cleanability
Especially important for homes with kids, pets, or food zones.
- Look for stain-resistant fabrics or apply a fabric protector spray
- Washable covers or removable slipcovers are great for dining chairs
- Consider performance fabrics with water-repellent or antimicrobial properties
🌿 4. Fibre Content
Each fibre has its pros and cons:
- Polyester / acrylic blends – strong, fade-resistant, low maintenance
- Cotton – soft and breathable but less stain-resistant
- Velvet – luxurious but can mark or crush with use
- Vinyl / leatherette – easy to clean, perfect for high-use or commercial settings
- Natural fibres – like linen or wool, offer beautiful texture but may need more care
Bonus Tip: Order a Swatch First
Always order a sample swatch before committing — especially if you’re matching existing décor or working with natural light.
Need help deciding? Visit our Sydney showroom to see samples, or speak to our team for expert recommendations based on your project and usage.
Why Shop Upholstery Fabric with Home Upholsterer?
✔ Access to top brands like Warwick, Profile, Parsons & more
✔ Wide range of in-stock and clearance upholstery fabrics
✔ Fast shipping across Australia
✔ Expert DIY and trade advice from industry professionals
✔ Matching supplies including custom cut foam, Dacron, adhesive and more
🪑 Explore our full upholstery fabric range or visit our Sydney showroom to see it in person.