Grades of Fabric Used in Upholstery

Since attaching upholstery to your furniture takes substantial effort, you want to know with certainty that the fabric you choose will meet your expectations. More than just its initial appearance, the other qualities of its material also demand attention. Texture and resilience can play roles that are as important as color and pattern. We’ll examine the grades of fabric used in upholstery within this post so you can approach the selection process with a more discerning eye.

The Grade System

Generally, fabric manufacturers utilize a grading system to indicate how expensive their products are. Each grade is designated with an alphabetical letter, starting at grade A and going up to grade F. Grade A fabrics are the least expensive, while those that belong to grade F are the most expensive. You can expect that grade F fabrics will have a superior composition, greater weave intricacy, and more natural materials.

However, you should note that the grading system is only a reflection of the costliness of the fabric. The other associated factors can vary widely between two products of the same grade category. Moreover, grades are relative to each manufacturer. This means that a grade F fabric from one company may not necessarily have the same level of quality as a grade F fabric from another manufacturer. It simply tells you that this fabric is the best offering for that particular manufacturer.

Natural vs. Synthetic

As you can see, the grading system is far from a be-all and end-all, as there are many attributes that may differ between fabrics. Therefore, we share some specific characteristics associated with the origin of fibers that you should stay conscious of when you consider grade. In terms of look, fabrics tend to have a more luxurious air when they are made of organic materials, including silk, wool, and linen. These all have a depth and feel that may be lacking in their synthetic alternatives. Some common examples of synthetic fabrics are polyester and vinyl. However, it is possible for them to mimic natural fabrics quite well in some cases.

Though synthetics may not always be the most aesthetically pleasing when scrutinized closely, they do have advantages in that they are often more hardwearing than natural fibers. Because they usually show up in the lower grades, they are also more affordable. Consider what purpose a fabric will play in your home to make the best choice in every scenario.

Now that you are acquainted with the grades of fabric used in upholstery, you can move forward and take action to settle on a fabric for your furniture. Come and peruse our collection of fabrics at Decorator’s Best. With products ranging from light sheer fabrics to sophisticated herringbone, you’re sure to find a superb fit for your home.