How to choose the right fabric for your project

Whether you’re a professional interior designer or a DIY enthusiast, finding the right fabric for your project can be tricky. With so many different types of fabric on the market, it can be hard to know what will work best for your needs.

Luckily, I Want Fabric offers an extensive range of upholstery fabrics that are perfect for any project – from home decorating and furniture upholstery to automotive and marine applications. 

In this guide, we'll show you how to choose the ideal fabric for your next creative endeavour.

Why Is It Important To Choose The Right Fabric?

Choosing the right fabric is essential for any project. The right material will ensure that your project looks great, performs as expected and lasts for years to come. From comfort and durability to style and functionality, selecting the correct fabric can make a huge difference in the end result of your project.

If you choose well, not only will your project last longer, but it will also look significantly more professional than if you had chosen a fabric that didn't quite fit the job.

What Should I Consider When Choosing Fabric?

When selecting fabric for your project, there are several things you should consider.

  1. Quality: The quality of the material is extremely important, as this will determine how long it lasts and how good it looks when completed. I Want Fabric offers an extensive range of high-quality upholstery fabrics in different colours and patterns that are perfect for any project.
  2. Durability: You'll also want to consider the fabric's durability. This includes factors such as its resistance to wear and tear, fading or shrinking over time, and how easily it can be cleaned or maintained. I Want Fabric stocks fabrics that are designed to be durable, meaning they will last much longer than other materials.
  3. Comfort: The fabric's comfort should also be taken into account when making your selection. Different fabrics offer different levels of comfort depending on their thickness, texture and material. I Want Fabric offers an array of high-quality fabrics that are designed specifically to provide optimal comfort for furniture upholstery or automotive applications.
  4. Style: Finally, you'll want to think about the style of your project. Different designs and patterns can completely transform a room or vehicle interior; I Want Fabric offers an extensive selection of stylish fabrics for all tastes, from classic and traditional to modern and contemporary.

Which Fabrics Are Notoriously Hard to Work With?

While fabrics can add a wonderful aesthetic to any project, some materials are notoriously difficult to work with. Leather, suede, and velvet can be tricky when it comes to upholstery projects as they require thicker needles and special tools for cutting and stitching.

If you're a beginner, it's better to avoid some of the more difficult fabrics to work with. If you're looking to start a new project, and you don't have extensive experience, here are a few fabrics and materials you should try to stay away from:

  • Satin Fabrics - Satin is notoriously difficult to work with because of its slippery nature. It's also not very durable and can fray easily, making it a bad choice for upholstery projects.
  • Denim - Denim is also tricky to work with because of its thick nature and unique weave. It's not the best choice for furniture upholstery as it can be difficult to fit around curves and pleats.
  • Knitted Fabrics - Knitted fabrics are more likely to stretch and warp when being cut or sewn, so it's best to avoid them if you're just starting out.
  • Faux Fur - Faux fur is also quite difficult to work with and requires special tools in order to get the desired look. It's best suited for experienced sewers.
  • Velvet / Crushed Velvet - Velvet and crushed velvet are notoriously difficult to work with as they can be hard to handle, stitch, and sew.

What Are The Different Types of Upholstery Fabric Available?

I Want Fabric features a wide variety of upholstery fabrics to choose from, each offering its own unique set of benefits. Here are just some of the types available:

  • Leather Upholstery Fabrics – Leather is a timeless classic, and it offers superior durability with a luxurious feel. It's perfect for furniture upholstery, automotive applications and more.
  • Vinyl Upholstery Fabrics – Vinyl is an affordable alternative to leather that's easy to maintain and clean. It's available in a variety of colours and patterns, making it ideal for unique projects.
  • Cotton Upholstery Fabrics – Cotton fabrics are known for their softness, breathability and comfort. It's perfect for furniture upholstery, curtains and other home decor projects.
  • Synthetic Upholstery Fabrics – Synthetic fabrics are highly durable and offer excellent resistance to wear and tear. They're ideal for automotive applications, as well as furniture upholstery and marine use.

What Are The Easiest Fabrics For Beginners To Work With?

If you're just starting out, it's best to stick with fabrics that are easier to work with. Here are some of our top picks for beginners:

  • Cotton – Cotton is highly durable and easy to sew. It's great for upholstery projects, curtains and other home decor items.
  • Canvas – Canvas is a great choice for upholstery projects because of its lightweight yet sturdy nature. It's also easy to sew and can be cleaned easily.
  • Linen – Linen is known for its softness and durability, making it ideal for furniture upholstery and other home decor items. It's also one of the most affordable fabrics on the market.
  • Polyester – Polyester is also affordable and easy to sew, making it a great choice for beginners. It's also highly durable, so it can handle wear and tear well.

No matter what fabric you choose for your project, make sure you have the right tools and knowledge before starting. I Want Fabric has a wide range of materials and equipment to help you make a success of your latest project.

How To Know Which Is The Right Type of Fabric For Your Project:

To find the ideal fabric for your project, you should consider all of the factors mentioned above. Quality, durability and comfort are all important, as is style. By taking into account these elements, you can ensure that you choose a fabric that will perform well and look great in the end.

At I Want Fabric, we have an extensive range of upholstery fabrics to choose from, in different colours and textures. Our selection includes leather, vinyl, cotton, synthetic and more – so you can find the perfect fabric for your project. With our high-quality materials and expert advice, we are here to help you create a masterpiece that will last for years to come.

What Should I Consider When Pairing Fabrics?

When you're pairing fabrics together for a project, it's important to think about how they will look and feel together. You should consider the colours, textures, patterns and materials of all the fabrics involved, as well as the overall desired effect. It's a good idea to try out some samples before making your final decision – this way you can get a better idea of how everything will look together.

At I Want Fabric, our experienced team is here to help you find the perfect fabric combination for your project. We can provide guidance and advice on pairing fabrics together that will bring out the best in each one.

For High-Quality, Workable Fabrics, Shop I Want Fabric's Diverse Range Today

Here at I Want Fabric, we can provide a complete range of upholstery fabrics for all types of projects, from furniture to automotive applications. Our selection includes leather, vinyl, cotton, synthetic and more – making it easy to find the ideal fabric for your project. With our knowledgeable staff and high-quality materials, you can be sure that you're getting a great value for money every time.

We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you towards the right fabric for your project. Visit I Want Fabric to browse our extensive selection of upholstery fabrics and get started on your project today! For more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.