Many things need to be taken into consideration when choosing an upholstery fabric.
Things like…color, pattern, and texture, as well as durability, location, residential or commercial and family aspects.
Lets consider each of these in a little more detail.

Color, Pattern & Texture

With thousands of fabrics to choose from, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming—but we’re here to help. We’ll work with you to discover what speaks to your personal style and complements your space. Using sample books, you can view fabrics right where they’ll be used, making it easier to choose colors, patterns, and textures that suit both your décor and your lifestyle.

Why Durability Matters

When selecting fabric for your upholstery project, looks aren’t everything—durability plays a major role in how long your piece will last. One key way to measure durability is through a rating called “double rubs.” This refers to how many times a fabric can be rubbed back and forth before showing signs of wear.

For everyday residential use, it’s best to choose a fabric rated at 50,000 double rubs or more. These fabrics are designed to handle daily wear and tear. Pieces that are used less frequently—like accent chairs or guest room seating—can often get by with fabrics rated between 15,000 and 30,000 double rubs. Anything lower is typically best suited for decorative purposes like drapery.

Think about how your furniture will be used:

High-use (living room sofas, family chairs): 50,000+ double rubs
Medium-use (guest room chairs, bedroom benches): 15,000–50,000 double rubs
Light-use (drapery, throw pillows): under 15,000 double rubs

Choosing the right fabric not only protects your investment—it helps your furniture look beautiful for years to come.

Commercial-Grade Fabric

Built for durability, this fabric is designed to withstand over 500,000 double rubs—making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Ideal for hotel lobbies, waiting rooms, restaurants, and other busy spaces, it offers long-lasting performance without sacrificing style.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Lifestyle

The right upholstery fabric can make all the difference—especially if your home includes allergy sufferers, children, or pets.

For Allergy Sufferers:
If you’re sensitive to dust, fabrics like microfiber or faux suede are great options. Their tight weave makes them less likely to trap allergens, helping you breathe easier.

For Families with Children:
Durability matters in high-traffic areas. That’s where Revolution Fabric shines. Made from Olefin yarn, it’s soft, stain-resistant, fade-resistant, and easy to clean—without any chemical treatments. Most spills wipe up with mild soap and water, and tougher messes can even be treated with bleach.

For Pet Owners:
Crypton Fabric is a favorite in pet-friendly homes. Each fiber is treated from the inside out using a patented process, making it permanently resistant to moisture, stains, mildew, bacteria, and odors. This isn’t a surface coating—it’s built-in protection that lasts.

Teal Tomorrow is a recognized dealer of leading fabric distributors and manufacturers, dedicated to assisting you in selecting the ideal fabric for your home or office.

Explore Fabrics From Our Trusted Vendors
You can browse online or request sample books to view in the comfort of your home or office.

…and more!

Ready to see samples in person or need help narrowing down your choices?
Schedule a consultation and let us guide you through the process of selecting the perfect fabric for your project.