Upholstery Fabric for Sale Online

Shop our range of upholstery fabric for sale at MHC World. Buy online and receive free delivery over R3500 & within a 30km radius from our store.

Apart from our upholstery fabric for sale, we also offer ground sheeting, tapestry and upholstery material for sale.

Upholstery fabric, available at MHC World, is a specialised textile used to cover furniture such as sofas, chairs, ottomans and headboards. It is a key component in both the aesthetic appeal and the functional quality of furniture. Whether you are reupholstering an old family couch or designing a brand-new interior, the right upholstery fabric can make a remarkable difference to the comfort, durability and style of your living space.

What Is Upholstery Fabric

Upholstery fabric is the textile material used to cover and finish pieces of furniture, including sofas, armchairs, dining chairs, and footstools. It plays a dual role: to provide comfort for the user and to enhance the visual appeal of the item. Upholstery fabric is usually heavier and more robust than ordinary fabric due to the stress it endures through constant use. It is often made with a tight weave or layered construction, designed to resist wear, stretching and sagging.

Depending on its application, upholstery fabric may also be treated to resist stains, fading and moisture. The choice of fabric impacts not only the look of the furniture but also how it feels to the touch and how it performs in everyday conditions. It is available in various fibres, including natural materials like cotton, linen and wool, as well as synthetics such as polyester, acrylic and nylon.

How Does Upholstery Fabric Differ from Other Fabrics

First and foremost, upholstery fabric is designed to be more durable. Ordinary fabrics, such as those used for clothing or curtains, are not built to withstand the frequent friction and weight that upholstered furniture is subjected to. Upholstery fabrics are made with a denser weave or thicker yarns, ensuring they can hold their shape and resist tearing.

Another distinction lies in the backing. Upholstery fabrics often have a secondary backing made from synthetic material or latex to give added stability and to prevent fraying. Some also have fire-retardant properties to comply with safety standards in public and commercial spaces.

The texture and weight of upholstery fabrics are also noticeably different. They tend to be heavier, stiffer and more structured, making them suitable for shaping and tacking onto furniture frames.

The Development of Upholstery Fabric Through the Years

The use of upholstery fabrics dates back to ancient civilisations, where textiles such as woven reeds and animal hides were used to soften hard seating. In mediaeval Europe, upholstery began to take shape as artisans used wool, leather and linen to pad and cover wooden benches and thrones.

During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, upholstery became more elaborate. Silk and velvet fabrics were used for royal furnishings, often embroidered or adorned with trims. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries transformed fabric production, introducing mass-manufactured woven textiles, synthetic dyes and mechanised looms. Upholstery became more accessible, and styles diversified.

In the 20th century, synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon revolutionised the market, offering stain resistance and greater durability at a lower price. The mid-century modern era introduced sleek, minimalist upholstery designs, while the late 20th century saw increased interest in eco-friendly and natural fibres.

Today, upholstery fabrics are designed with both technology and tradition in mind. You can buy contemporary designs with advanced stain-repellent finishes, as well as classic textiles woven in time-honoured patterns.

Who Would Buy Upholstery Fabric

Homeowners who wish to refresh a room without replacing costly furniture can reupholster existing items at a fraction of the price of new pieces. This is particularly beneficial for families who want to extend the life of a well-loved couch or revive heirloom furniture with modern flair.

Interior designers and decorators often purchase upholstery fabric to tailor furniture pieces to specific design schemes. This allows for greater control over colour palettes, textures and themes, resulting in unique, cohesive interiors. Hospitality businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, also rely on high-performance upholstery fabrics to maintain a polished look while withstanding constant use.

Different Types and Styles of Upholstery Fabric and Their Features

There are many types and styles of upholstery fabric, each with specific benefits suited to different furniture applications. These include:

·         Cotton: A natural and breathable fabric, cotton is soft, comfortable and widely used for casual or country-style furniture. It is prone to wrinkling and can stain, so it is often blended with synthetics.

·         Linen: Known for its light texture and fresh appearance, linen is great for formal furniture. However, it creases easily and requires careful maintenance.

·         Wool: A strong and durable natural fibre, wool offers warmth and softness. It is resistant to pilling and wrinkling and often comes blended with synthetics for ease of care.

·         Polyester: A popular synthetic fibre known for its durability and stain resistance. It is often combined with other fibres and is ideal for high-use furniture.

·         Velvet: Luxurious and soft, velvet adds a rich, elegant feel. It is best used in low-traffic areas or for feature pieces due to its tendency to crush or mark.

·         Acrylic: Lightweight and resistant to sunlight and fading, acrylic is often used for outdoor or conservatory furniture.

·         Leather and Faux Leather: These are durable and easy to clean. Genuine leather ages beautifully but is more expensive, while faux leather offers a budget-friendly alternative with a similar look.

What Is the Lifespan of Upholstery Fabric and How Can You Extend It

On average, upholstery fabric lasts between 5 and 15 years. High-use pieces like family sofas tend to show signs of wear sooner than occasional chairs.

To extend the lifespan of your upholstery fabric, rotate cushions regularly to distribute wear evenly. Vacuum the fabric weekly to remove dust and debris, which can cause fibres to break down over time. Protect furniture from direct sunlight, which fades and weakens many types of fabric. Use armrest covers or throws in high-contact areas, especially if you have pets or young children.

Spot-clean spills immediately and avoid harsh cleaning chemicals that may damage the fabric. If the fabric has a removable cover, follow the washing instructions carefully. For fixed upholstery, professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months can help maintain appearance and hygiene.

How to Choose Upholstery Fabric

For everyday family furniture, durability and stain resistance are key. Fabrics like polyester, acrylic or tightly woven cotton blends are ideal in these situations. For decorative or occasional use, fabrics such as linen or velvet can provide elegance and texture without needing to withstand heavy wear.

Neutral tones provide versatility, while bold colours and patterns can create focal points. If you have pets, choose a fabric that resists snagging or is easy to wipe clean. Textured weaves hide dirt better than flat weaves, and darker colours mask stains more effectively than lighter ones.

Always ask for swatches so you can feel the texture and see how the colour looks in your own lighting. Measure your furniture carefully to determine how much fabric you will need.

Best Brands of Upholstery Fabric Available on MHC World

At MHC World you can purchase all reputable brands of Upholstery Fabric of all types at a reasonable price.