How can I make sure I choose the right fabric for my project?

Start by considering where and how the fabric will be used. Upholstery requires durable, hardwearing fabrics with a high Martindale rub test, while curtains and blinds look best in fabrics that drape beautifully. Colour, texture, and pattern should also complement your existing interior style. If you’re not sure, ordering a fabric sample is the best way to check how it looks in your space.

What’s the best fabric for upholstery?

For upholstery, we recommend fabrics designed to withstand everyday use, such as velvets, chenille, and performance fabrics with stain-resistant finishes like AquaClean. These fabrics are practical, long-lasting, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for sofas, chairs, and footstools.

How do I choose fabric for curtains or blinds?

When selecting curtain or blind fabrics, think about weight, drape, and light control.

  • Heavy fabrics like velvet or damask create a luxurious, formal look.
  • Lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton blends give a soft, airy finish.
    If your chosen fabric has a pattern repeat, make sure you allow extra fabric for matching.

What is a fabric pattern repeat and why does it matter?

A pattern repeat is the distance before a fabric’s design starts again. This affects how much fabric you need, especially for large-scale patterns. For curtains and upholstery, allowing extra for pattern matching ensures a professional finish.

How do I know if a fabric is durable enough?

The Martindale rub test is the industry standard for measuring fabric durability. The higher the number of rubs, the more resistant the fabric is to wear. For example:

  • 15,000–25,000 rubs: Suitable for light domestic use
  • 30,000–50,000 rubs: Everyday upholstery use
  • 50,000+ rubs: Heavy-duty or commercial settings

Can I order fabric samples before buying?

Yes! We offer samples of all fabrics and trimmings, so you can see the colour and texture in your home before committing. If you go on to purchase the full metreage, the cost of the sample is refunded.

What’s the difference between upholstery fabric and curtain fabric?

Upholstery fabric is woven to be strong, durable, and resistant to abrasion, while curtain fabric is designed to hang and drape more easily. Some fabrics are versatile enough for both, but always check the product description to ensure it suits your project.

Can I get advice on choosing the right fabric?

Absolutely! Our team has specialist knowledge of interior textiles and fabric selection. We’re here to help you with tailored recommendations to suit your project — whether you’re looking for traditional damasks, contemporary velvets, or decorative trimmings.

Why Shop with Pure Fabrics?

At Pure Fabrics, we combine quality, expertise, and inspiration to help you create interiors you’ll love. With years of experience in upholstery, curtains, and trimmings, we’re proud to offer:

  • A carefully curated selection of fabrics and trimmings
  • Expert advice based on a background in interior textiles
  • Worldwide shipping with fabric samples available
  • A passion for timeless and contemporary design

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