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When it comes to upholstered furniture, there’s definitely no shortage of material options! Our Showroom & Design Center in the heart of Elm Grove, WI is home to hundreds of beautiful fabrics and leathers from which to choose. From colors to textures to patterns, our designers are here to help you make the perfect selections for your style and space.

When working with clients, our designers consider a number of key factors to help find the ideal fabric for your furniture. Here’s a quick guide to help get you started:

Consider Your Lifestyle and Needs

• Durability: If you have kids, pets, or simply tend to be rough on your furniture, opt for fabrics like leather, microfiber, or a tightly woven chenille.
• Stain Resistance: For high-traffic areas, look for fabrics with stain-resistant treatments. Performance fabrics are a great choice for families.
• Comfort: The feel of the fabric is important. If you prefer something soft and plush, velvet or chenille might be ideal. For a cooler feel, linen or cotton are good options.

Understand Fabric Types

• Natural Fibers: Cotton, linen, and wool offer breathability and natural beauty. However, they may wrinkle easily.
• Leather: A timeless choice, leather is durable, easy to clean, and adds a touch of luxury. However, it can be expensive and requires regular conditioning.
• Synthetic Fibers: Polyester, microfiber, and acrylic are durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. They often mimic the look of natural fibers.

Evaluate the Performance

• Abrasion Resistance: This measures how well a fabric can withstand rubbing. For high-traffic areas, choose a fabric with a high abrasion rating.
• Colorfastness: For rooms with lots of windows, consider options that won’t fade when exposed to sunlight.
• Cleaning Code: Understand the fabric’s cleaning requirements before purchasing. Some fabrics can be spot cleaned, while others require professional cleaning.

Consider the Look and Feel

• Style: Your fabric should complement your overall decor. For a modern look, consider clean lines and neutral colors. A traditional style might call for floral patterns or rich textures.
• Texture: The texture of the fabric can significantly impact the look and feel of your furniture. From smooth leather to chunky chenille, there’s a texture for every taste.

Experience a Sample

One of the greatest benefits to creating custom pieces at Warren Barnett Interior Design is our vast library of large fabric swatches. We want you to get a great sense of the look, feel, and texture to be sure you’re confident in the selection.

To get started creating your own upholstered pieces, visit our Showroom & Design Center in Elm Grove today! Our Milwaukee interior designers are here to simplify the process and help you find exactly what you’re looking for.