Is Crushed Velvet Fabric Good for Upholstery?

Crushed velvet is becoming more and more popular for home furniture, especially for upholstery projects for sofas, chairs or accent pieces. This post goes into the details of crushed velvet fabric, to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your project.

What is Crushed Velvet Fabric and How is It Made?

Velvet is a luxurious fabric with a soft pile and shine. Velvet is woven on a double piece loom which weaves two fabrics at the same time. What makes crushed velvet different from regular velvet is the texture achieved by twisting the fabric when it’s wet and applying pressure. This process creates a crinkled, shiny surface with a lot of play of light and texture.

Velvet vs Crushed Velvet: Main Differences

Regular velvet has a smooth, uniform pile, crushed velvet has a more irregular, multidirectional shine. Plus:

• Appearance: Crushed velvet refracts light in all directions, looks more dynamic and shiny than regular velvet.

• Touch: Both are soft, but crushed velvet has a tactile depth and richness that’s unique to the process.

• Durability: Regular velvet is heavier and slightly more durable due to its uniform structure, crushed velvet is more decorative.

Both are good for upholstery, but it depends on your style and usage.

Is Crushed Velvet Fabric Good for Upholstery?

The suitability of crushed velvet for upholstery depends on the application. Below we go into the pros and cons of using this fabric for sofas and other furniture.

Pros of Crushed Velvet Fabric for Sofas

1. Luxurious Look:

Crushed velvet adds luxury to any room with its shiny texture and bright colors. Purple is a popular color for crushed velvet upholstery fabric because of its bright and luxurious look.

1. Soft and Cozy:

Perfect for furniture for lounging, sofas and armchairs.

1. Versatile Look:

Crushed velvet goes with many interior styles, modern minimalist to traditional glam.

1. Light Reflecting:

The texture reflects light well, crushed velvet furniture is a focal point.

1. Customizable Fabric Options:

Available in various fiber types, can be tailored to durability or budget.

1. Maintenance:

Crushed velvet gets impressions and marks. Spills or stains may need special cleaning to prevent damage.

1. Wear and Tear:

Heavy use will flatten the pile, affecting the shine and look.

1. Long Term Durability:

While beautiful, crushed velvet is suited for low traffic furniture rather than high use.

1. Cost of Premium Options:

High end crushed velvet options like silk based ones can be pricey.

Crushed Velvet Fabric for Upholstery

Not all crushed velvets are created equal. Here are the types to consider for upholstery:

1. Silk Velvet

• Features:

Softest and shiniest of all, drapes beautifully.

• Best for:

Decorative or low use furniture away from direct sunlight.

• Cons:

Highly prone to staining and sensitive to environment.

2. Rayon Velvet

• Features:

Lightweight, soft and a more affordable alternative to silk velvet.

• Best for:

Sofas and upholstery projects with easy maintenance.

• Cons:

Less durable than natural fiber velvets.

3. Linen Velvet

• Features:

Breathable and good for warm climates, matte finish absorbs dyes for rich colors.

• Best for:

Sofas in casual low traffic areas.

• Cons:

More prone to wear due to shorter pile.

4. Mohair Velvet

• Features:

Made from Angora goat hair, this fabric is sturdy and dirt and crush resistant.

• Best for:

High use furniture in high traffic areas.

• Cons:

Not as shiny as silk or synthetic velvets.

5. Synthetic Velvet

Made from high quality polyester, synthetic velvet resists fading and wear.

• Best for:

Budget friendly projects that need long term durability.

• Cons:

Not as soft and luxurious as natural fiber velvets.

6. Standard Crushed Velvet

• Features:

Crinkled texture and shimmering effect.

• Best for:

Decorative furniture projects that need visual impact.

• Cons:

More for aesthetic rather than functional use.

Choosing Crushed Velvet Fabric

• Look at the color and pattern of the fabric, and the texture and pile height. Make sure to compare fabrics from the same dye lot to ensure color match.

• What will you be using the fabric for? Upholstery, drapery, apparel? The yard sells crushed velvet fabrics by the yard so you can buy what you need for your project.

• Look for high quality fabrics with high rub count, 100,000 Wyzenbeek Rubs (Heavy Duty).

• Check the fabric material, 100% nylon or cotton velvet fabric.

• Check the price and availability of the fabric, any discounts or promotions.

Crushed Velvet Upholstery Fabric Considerations

1. Traffic:

High traffic areas need durable fabrics like mohair or rayon velvet.

1. Maintenance:

How easy is it to clean? Mohair and synthetic velvets are low maintenance.

1. Style and Aesthetic:

How does the fabric match your decor? A bold silk velvet for modern homes, matte finished linen for traditional spaces.

1. Climate:

Linen velvet for warm climates, silk velvet for cool protected areas.

1. Budget:

Natural fiber velvets like silk or mohair can be expensive, synthetic blends are cost effective. Check if the fabric is in stock to ensure timely project completion.

How to Care for Crushed Velvet Upholstery Fabric

• Before cleaning, get and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the fabric.

• Natural fiber velvets may need to be cleaned with a solvent not water or water based products.

• Test a inconspicuous area first and consider calling a professional for upholstery fabrics.

• Don’t expose the fabric to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

• Use a mild cleaning product and don’t scrub or rub the fabric.

Crushed Velvet Upholstery Fabric Picks

• Look for fabrics with high rub count, 100,000 Wyzenbeek Rubs (Heavy Duty). These are sold by the yard so you can buy what you need for your project.

• Soft hand and high end crushed velvet type for upholstery, interior decorating or coat garments.

• Tone on tone subtle fading like an antique velvet.

• Look for fabrics in many colors and patterns, solids, stripes and florals.

• Fabrics with durable and stain resistant treatment like Scotchgard or Teflon. Customers can return products within a certain time frame for a full refund so you can try before you buy.

Crushed Velvet for Upholstery Bottom Line

Crushed velvet fabric is a beautiful decorative fabric, but you must weigh the softness, beauty and versatility against the maintenance and durability for your application.

For high traffic or family areas choose mohair or synthetic blends. For low use decorative furniture silk or linen velvets will make a statement.

Balance aesthetics, function and budget and you’ll find the right crushed velvet fabric for your upholstery.

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