Type

Characteristics

Acetate

 A synthetic imitation of silk but has low durability and can be prone to sunlight damage if placed in bright light but, resistant to moths and shrinkage

Acrylic

A synthetic version of wool; excellent in resisting wrinkling, fading and dirt. Heavy use can lead to piling.

Cotton

A natural fibre, the durability of which depends on how tight the weave of the fabric is. Can stain and wrinkle and sunlight can discolour

Leather

A natural product that is popular. Incredibly durable but can be easily stained if not protected. Looks better with age but can be damaged by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Many upholstery Wishaw customers opt for leather as it gives a feeling of opulence and luxury, as well as being a fabric that fits in with any interior design scheme.

Linen

Another natural product that is popular, especially as it is strong but, as with all linen product, will wrinkle easily. Not faded by the dun, the fabric is actually weakened by it and it is not recommended for heavy use.

Nylon

A synthetic fabric that is strengthened when used alongside other fibres. Can fade and pill, although it can resist stains and does not wrinkle easily.

Polyester

Another synthetic fabric that is seldom used alone, but blended with others to create a piece that resists wrinkling and fading.

Rayon

Another synthetic fabric and is relative inexpensive; used with cotton and linen it creates a durable fabric, but can be prone to shrinkage and also wrinkling.

Wool

A natural product that is once again enjoying a resurgence in the British market, wool is durable and warm. It rarely fades or wrinkles and is often woven with other fibres to increase performance. Many upholstery Wishaw customers are using this fabric to recover sofas and chairs, as the patterns and colours have increased immensely in recent years.

Vinyl

A synthetic fabric that imitates leather but its durability is dependent on quality. It can be damaged by heavy abrasive actions and high temperatures.