When considering reupholstering furniture or purchasing upholstery fabric, one of the first things that surprises people is the cost of the fabric itself. Upholstery fabric is significantly more expensive than standard fabric used for clothing or curtains. But why? Let’s break it down.
Upholstery Fabric vs. Regular Fabric: Understanding the Cost Differences
To understand why upholstery fabric is more expensive, it helps to compare it to other types of fabric:
Fabric Type | Typical Price per Yard | Common Uses |
Regular Cotton Fabric | $5 - $15 | Clothing, quilting, crafts |
Curtain/Drapery Fabric | $10 - $40 | Window treatments |
Outdoor Fabric | $15 - $50 | Patio furniture, cushions |
Upholstery Fabric | $30 - $200+ | Sofas, chairs, automotive, RVs |
As you can see, upholstery fabric falls at the higher end of the spectrum. But the price isn’t just about aesthetics—it reflects the durability, quality, and specialized nature of the fabric.
What Makes Upholstery Fabric So Expensive?
1. Durability & Quality
Upholstery fabric is designed to last for years, even decades. Unlike standard fabric, it must withstand:
Constant friction and wear from daily use.
Stretching and compression without losing shape.
Exposure to sunlight, spills, and cleaning products.
Many upholstery fabrics undergo rigorous abrasion tests like the Martindale or Wyzenbeek tests, ensuring they can handle tens of thousands of rubs before showing wear.
2. Material Costs
The materials used in upholstery fabrics tend to be higher quality and more durable than those used in clothing or drapery fabrics. Some common materials include:
Natural fibers: Wool, linen, cotton, silk (expensive but luxurious)
Synthetic blends: Polyester, acrylic, nylon (durable, stain-resistant, and budget-friendly)
Performance fabrics: Solution-dyed acrylics (like Sunbrella) or engineered materials (like Crypton) that resist stains, water, and fading
These materials contribute to both durability and cost.
3. Manufacturing Complexity
Upholstery fabrics are made on industrial looms with tighter weaves, reinforced backings, or intricate patterns. Some key factors adding to cost:
Specialty weaves (like jacquards or chenille) require complex manufacturing processes.
Some fabrics need pattern alignment, which increases waste and labor costs.
Higher-end fabrics are handwoven or custom-dyed, further increasing their price.
4. Special Treatments & Performance Features
Many upholstery fabrics are treated to enhance their longevity, including:
Stain resistance (e.g., Scotchgard, Crypton, Teflon coating)
UV protection to prevent fading
Fire retardancy for commercial applications
Antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and mildew
These added treatments increase both the production costs and the value of the fabric.
5. Limited Production & Higher Waste Factor
Unlike clothing fabrics, upholstery fabric is produced in smaller batches, making it less mass-produced and therefore more expensive. Additionally, it’s typically sold in wider widths (54-60 inches) than regular fabric, which contributes to cost. Upholstery projects also require extra yardage for pattern matching and seam allowances, increasing the overall amount of fabric needed.
6. Import Costs & Supply Chain Issues
Many high-end upholstery fabrics are imported from textile mills in Italy, Belgium, and the U.S., where labor and material costs are higher. Recent supply chain disruptions have also affected fabric pricing, increasing costs due to shipping fees and raw material shortages.
How Much Does Upholstery Fabric Cost?
If you're considering reupholstering furniture, here’s a general price breakdown of upholstery fabrics:
Budget Fabrics: $30 - $60 per yard (basic polyester blends, low-end cottons, or discounted remnants)
Mid-Range Fabrics: $60 - $100 per yard (higher-end polyester, linen blends, commercial-grade fabrics)
High-End Fabrics: $100 - $200+ per yard (wool, velvet, silk blends, designer brands, Crypton)
Luxury & Designer Fabrics: $200+ per yard (handwoven textiles, exclusive patterns, premium leathers)
For reference, a standard sofa may require 10-20 yards of fabric, depending on size and complexity. This means the fabric alone could cost anywhere from $300 to $4,000+, before labor costs.
Is It Worth It?
While the price of upholstery fabric might seem high, investing in quality fabric ensures:
A longer-lasting finished product
A more comfortable and durable piece of furniture
The ability to choose colors, patterns, and textures that fit your space perfectly
If you’re considering a reupholstery project, it’s important to factor in both fabric and labor costs. At Elegance Upholstery, we can help you navigate fabric choices and find something that fits both your style and budget.
Need a fabric quote or reupholstery estimate? Contact us today!
📞 (587) 800-4888🌐 EleganceUpholstery.ca
Comments