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Fabric 101
By Derek B. Groves
Fabric can be one of the most dramatic specifications in a home's interior design concept, because it offers the chance to introduce new textures to the space. Fabric also helps create a variety of moods, depending on the color and style. "Fabric added color and drama to my space while creating a more finished yet romantic feel," says P. Dean Addison of Salt Lake City, Utah. "I didn't realize how fabric could provide such a noticeable change."
When approaching the challenge of choosing a new fabric, it's easy to get sidetracked by the numerous patterns and colors. The challenge is to obtain the look you want with a textile that performs the way you expect it to perform. Understanding the basic categories and characteristics of textiles will help you make long-lasting decorating decisions. Here are some simple guidelines:
"The fabric for the front of my duvet cover is a silk by Pindler and Pindler, however I needed the duvet's backside to be functional for my lifestyle which includes my dog," says Meche Ortega of Park City, Utah. "[My designer] and I incorporated a fabric made of polyester fibers for the duvet's backside, which blended beautifully with the 100 percent silk textile on the front. I love the look of both fabrics and enjoy the 'no worry' security from the polyester."
Once you know how the fabric will be used, it's time to take a look at the textile industry. Although there are several specific categories in the textile industry, for our purposes we will simplify the categories into two: naturals and synthetics.
As beautiful as natural fibers are, they are not perfect for every use. Silk is a favorite choice for window treatments, but the fabric would not be ideal for windows in a sunny conservatory, because extreme sunlight could cause harsh effects to the textile. Another common mistake is linen fabric used for heavy upholstery.
Most natural fabrics are best for light-use only, especially when it comes to upholstery. Some light upholstery suggestions could include a silk textile on a pair of French chairs in a formal living room, or a cotton and linen blend on a bench in a formal entry. Wools are a little more durable. Remember anytime you are working with textiles woven from natural fibers, they are the "special ones" of the textile industry and require loving care and proper application to ensure that they will be around for years to come.
