Fabric Technical Sheet: What You Need to Know
How to read composition, width, test results, and labels on an upholstery fabric technical sheet before ordering.
A technical sheet (datasheet) is the supplier document that collects the key measurable properties of a fabric. For upholstery projects, it should be the first reference before style decisions are finalized.
Composition and structure
Fiber composition (polyester, cotton, blends, etc.) affects care routines, long-term color behavior, and tactile comfort. Surface structure such as plain weave, textured weave, loop, or boucle affects how the upholstery handles hair, dust, and reflected light.
Width, weight, and direction
Usable width drives cutting layout and waste in production. Fabric weight can indicate body and handling under tension, but it should always be interpreted together with test values and a physical swatch.
Tests and standards
Most datasheets include abrasion resistance (often Martindale), pilling resistance, light fastness, and sometimes stain or flame performance. Numeric values are meaningful only when compared under the same test method and intended use class.
Summary
Treat the technical sheet as a quality comparison and sourcing control tool. Combine it with in-room swatch evaluation to reduce risk before full upholstery production.