You’ve evaluated and confirmed the structural integrity of your project in Step 1 and measured it to determine fabric yardage requirement in Step 2. Now you’re ready for the fun part!
A textured surface changes the way light effects a fabric’s color, look and feel
Choosing the perfect fabric for an upholstery project is one of my favorite steps! Many of my students have a gift for visualization, and I always learn new ways of seeing, whether I’m working with someone who has a definite plan for the outcome of their project, or a person who needs to ‘try on’ several looks before deciding on a style.
Button & welt details can enhance a fabric’s natural beauty and define the style of a chair
Color, texture and pattern are three variables you will encounter in the realm of fabrics. Each lends a unique character to the surface, and to each other. For the more artistically inclined, collage, applique and fabric dyeing are just a few of the options available to spice up a chair’s unique character.
Texture & Color combine to create a unique Pattern in this hand-dyed silk fabric
The process of fabric selection can be a challenge – I’ve heard it compared to selecting a paint color for your house. I recommend taking a few samples home to look at them in the context of the room in which they will reside.
A custom leaf design adds a unique touch to this restored vintage Drexel Pecedent chair
Lighting and proximity with other elements in the room always affect how a fabric looks and feels. Most upholsterers offer a library of fabric sample books which they’ll allow you to check out for home viewing.
Chrome & vinyl make the perfect marriage on this vintage mid-century spring chair
The one thing that I love most about fabrics is the way that even similar colors, patterns & textures can feel so different – there’s often an underlying meaning that resonates with us, even if we can’t quite figure out why we like it. Choose something that is uniquely YOU!
Previous: Step 2 – Measuring
Next: Step 4 – Deconstruction
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I have an old ratty, couch in my home, but I wanted to re-upholster it instead of just throwing it away. You had some great information about the re-upholstery process, and I liked how you said to take car in fabric selection, and to take a few samples fabrics home with you so you can look at them in the context of the room in which they will reside. Thanks; I’ll keep this in mind if I re-upholster my couch.
Thanks for your kind comments Jocelyn, glad it was helpful!
Carla