NZ Upholstery Guide

Starting a new project can be daunting, especially when you don't know how, or where to start. To help guide you through your next decorating project, we’ve created a cheat sheet of upholstery information which you can refer to at any time. 

We also enlisted advice from some of our wonderful Warwick customers to share their expert knowledge and experience. With this guide, we hope you can feel that bit more confident and at ease when making informed decisions to bring your projects to life!

UPHOLSTERY

Looking to upholster a new or existing furniture piece? We have created a list of things to consider when doing so!

SIZE

Knowing the size of your furniture piece — whether it’s a chair, sofa, ottoman, bedhead, or cushion — is crucial as it determines the amount of fabric you will need.

2-SEATER

For a 2-seater, 10 – 15 metres is recommended, however it is important to keep in mind the pattern/direction of the fabric when deciding on how much to use.

“The width of the fabric is also important, as well as using the correct type of fabric: upholstery fabric rather than decorative fabric. You need to also ensure the chosen fabric meets the use of the furniture: Domestic versus Commercial use for instance. Harder wearing fabrics are better suited to commercial use, as opposed to a sofa or piece that won’t be used as often.” – Michael Patrick Johnson & Johnson Waters Interior Design.

3-SEATER

When upholstering or re-upholstering a 3-seater, Michael from Michael Patrick Johnson & Johnson Waters Interior Design suggests around 18 metres of fabric, and we agree that this would be a safe amount.

“You will need to take into account things such whether your sofa has arms or no arms. Extra details and difficult shapes will require more fabric.”

CHAISE

For a standard chaise lounge, 7 – 8 metres is recommended.

WINGBACK CHAIR

Between 6 – 7.5 metres of fabric will be enough to cover a wingback chair.

SMALL ACCENT CHAIR

Depending on its shape and size, anything from 3 metres to 10 metres will suffice for this type of chair.

DINING CHAIR

A dining chair typically requires less fabric, so 1 – 1.5 metres will be enough to cover it.

BEDHEAD

Bedheads can be a little tricker as they all vary in shape and size.

Sharon from Let’s See Design advises: “It’s important to consider its height and width, as well as whether you are wanting it covered in a plain or patterned fabric.”

For a standard sized bedhead, we recommend 4 – 5 metres, and 8 metres for ones that are large-scale.

CREDITS

A big, special thank you to the following for their helpful advice and recommendations: Michael at Michael Patrick Johnson & Johnson Waters Interior Design, Graham at Pieces of Joy Studio, Sharon at Let’s See Design, John and Marie Hills, Tara Martin at Domayne, Sue Goodlet, and Jennifer Bell.

TYPES OF UPHOLSTERY FABRIC 

Once you have an idea of how much fabric you need to upholster your piece, the next thing is to consider what type of fabric would best suit your needs and what to look for.

DOMESTIC VS COMMERICAL FABRIC

One question that is commonly asked is: what is the difference between domestic and commercial fabric?

Domestic fabrics are tested (within a testing lab) to meet the needs of a family/household and what they will throw at their furniture from a wear, pilling, seam slippage, and colourfastness level.

Commercial fabrics, on the other hand, are tested to meet the needs of high use areas and may be tested further for things like fire, acoustic or environmental impact.

These days, commercial fabrics can ‘look’ like domestic fabrics, so if you want to put a commercial fabric in a domestic house, you can, but if you put a domestic fabric within a commercial environment, the fabric may wear prematurely due to the extreme use. 

All our fabrics are tested for free formaldehyde, so regardless of where the fabric is used, we know they are safe to those using them. 

SUITABLE TRAFFIC AREAS

When it comes to determining which fabric to choose, it’s important to consider where your upholstery piece will be located — whether it is outdoor, indoor, high traffic, or low traffic.

For high traffic areas where there is a lot of interaction (such as commercial spaces and living rooms), we recommend choosing a fabric that has a Heavy Commercial and Halo rating as they are hard-wearing, durable and stain resistant. This will ensure longevity and keep your furniture protected.

For low traffic areas (such as residential spaces/rooms where there isn’t much interaction), both domestic and commercial fabrics can be used.

Whether the area is high or low traffic, we always recommend looking at the fabric’s composition, as well as any beneficial properties to help determine which fabric is the right fit for the space.

LINEN FOR UPHOLSTERY

Linen is a beautiful luxurious fibre that is the second most sustainable fibre available (after wool), plus it is naturally antibacterial, hypoallergenic and temperature regulating. Upholstery grade linen can be used for most furniture pieces, and although there is a lot to love about linen, it is important to know its characteristics before committing.

Pure linen is a natural fibre that tends to crease — this characteristic works within casual aesthetics that are after a real crumpled, organic feel. Linen is not stain resistant. Depending on the care instructions of the linen you are looking at, some qualities are also washable and perfect for washable covers.

For those with busy homes or commercial spaces, opting for a linen-look or linen blend fabric could be a better option — our Eames range is a great alternative to achieving this look.

BEST FABRIC FOR OUTDOOR

Our range of SUNDEC fabrics are perfect for outdoor lounges. Whether in the garden, by the pool, on a boat, entertainment deck or an outdoor cafe, SUNDEC is designed to create a beautifully coordinating environment that can be effortlessly maintained no matter the conditions.

SUNDEC is a lightfast, durable, and easy to clean partner for all year round indoor and outdoor decorative applications. Developed to withstand commercial sunlight exposure requirements, mould and mildew growth, chlorine damage and general wear and tear. If that’s not enough, it includes water repellency and microbial hygiene protection making stylish outdoor living easier.

When talking to your retailer or decorating specialist, make sure an appropriate outdoor foam is used within your furniture to prolong the life of your outdoor pieces. 

For more information on SUNDEC, be sure to read our brochure here.

FABRIC TERMINOLOGIES

There are specific terminologies that can be a little confusing at first if you’re new to the world of fabrics. To help and understand, we have put together a list of terms you will either see or hear when it comes to a collection or fabric you’re interested in using. 

RAILROADED VS NON-RAILROADED

Railroaded and Non-Railroaded refers to the direction the pattern/fabric will run. For example, if the upholstery fabric you’ve chosen is striped, the stripes will run in different directions, depending if the fabric is Railroaded or Non-Railroaded.

Railroaded fabrics are used across the roll, meaning your pattern will run horizontally across the furniture. Non-Railroaded fabrics, on the other hand, are used up the roll, meaning your pattern will run vertically up the furniture.

You will also see plain fabrics with ‘Plain’ or ‘Multi’ directions. Plain fabrics can be cut in any direction at the discretion of the manufacturer and in consultation with the customers preference.

‘Plain’ directions need to be cut in a consistent direction for the one piece of furniture, whereas ‘Multi’ directions can be cut in varying directions for the one piece of furniture.

Both ‘Plain’ and ‘Multi’ plains are sampled in the direction it comes up the roll (Non-Railroaded).

PATTERN REPEAT VS PATTERN MATCH

A pattern repeat is the distance between 2 matching design elements. This distance helps determine how much fabric you need. For example, fabric with no pattern repeat can be matched along the seam generally anywhere, whereas a fabric with a pattern should be sewn where the fabric matches each other. 

Pattern matching refers to how the fabric is cut and made into furniture, or window treatments. The most important part of pattern matching is how the pattern lies on the fabric and then cut. When the fabric is a design (not a plain), the pattern needs to be lied down so that the fabric matches when it is sewn into the upholstery piece or drapery. Pattern matched pieces generally use more fabric and take longer to make in the manufacturing process.

FR TESTING

When you see AS1530.3 or AS1530.2 on one of our hangers, it represents the fire rating tests we have conducted. FR testing is more important for commercial spaces as they have a larger number of people (high traffic) within the environment. 

A fire-resistance rating typically means the duration for which a passive fire protection system can withstand a standard fire resistance test. This can be quantified simply as a measure of time, or it may entail other criteria, involving evidence of functionality or fitness for purpose. There are multiple fire tests for New Zealand and Australia, they can also change on a state level and determine where and how the fabric is being used.

What’s the difference between AS1530.3 and AS1530.2?

AS1530.3 is a standard fire rating test within the AU and NZ building code for upholstery and drapery applications, whereas AS1530.2 is a test for drapery and wall coverings only (including bed heads in some states) within the AU and NZ building code.

New Zealand FR drapery standards require a flammability index result of 12 or less. For more information contact commercial@warwick.co.nz

HALO

Halo Fabrics are designed to last. Woven to precise specifications with high abrasion standards, all Halo Fabrics repel stains, pilling, mould and moths. So they can handle whatever you, your family or friends throw at them.

Warwick Halo fabrics are compatible with independent retail fabric protection and guarantee programmes. These programmes enhance the fabric’s ability to resist liquid staining by providing a spill repellent surface and/or warranties to cover accidental damage.

Warwick Halo fabrics are the perfect choice for those who value both fashion and function.

NOTE: Halo is not a treatment, but rather built-in characteristics of the yarn and fabric weave.

OEKO-TEX

Oeko-Tex is the internationally standardised criteria directory for testing harmful substances issued by the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Ecology (Oeko-Tex).

Our fabrics featuring the ‘Confidence in Textiles’ label have been tested for harmful substances and are found to comply with all required criteria without exception.

Look for the Oeko-Tex sticker on your hanger sample.

RUB RATE

A rub rate refers to the rub test which is a method of assessing the durability/wear (or 'abrasion resistance') of a fabric. When the fabric begins to show signs of wear and tear, the test finishes by counting the number of 'rubs' up to that point. This gives a textile a 'rub count'.

There are many different abrasion resistance tests to measure the durability or wear resistance of fabrics. For upholstery fabrics, three widely used methods are known as the Martindale test, Wyzenbeek test, and the Stoll Abrasion test.

What is Wyzenbeek and Martindale, and what’s the difference?

Wyzenbeek and Martindale refer to the type of machine testing the fabric.

Martindale is well known in Europe where the machine rubs the fabric in a figure eight pattern (all directions), while Wyzenbeek is more common in the United States and rubs the fabric in a cross pattern — up and down and left and right. Australia and New Zealand accept both standards, but with a preference for Martindale.

There is no general correlation between the Martindale and Wyzenbeek tests. You cannot predict one result from the other.

RUB RATES FOR DETERMINING FABRIC USE:

Durability LD – Light Domestic 

Martindale = 10 – 15,000 rubs 
Wyzenbeek = 3 – 9,000 rubs 

GD – General Domestic

Martindale = 15 – 20,000 rubs 
Wyzenbeek = 9 – 15,000 rubs 

HD – Heavy Domestic / General Commercial 

Martindale = 20 – 40,000 rubs 
Wyzenbeek = 15,000+ rubs 

HC – Heavy Commercial 

Martindale = 40,000+ rubs 
Wyzenbeek = 30,000+ rubs.

FABRIC INFORMATION

If you’ve recently invested or are planning to work on a new interior project, choosing and caring for your new fabric is a necessity. In this section, we provide extra information that we hope helps with your decision, as well as ensuring your fabric lasts for years!

DUAL-PURPOSE

When a fabric can be used for both upholstery and drapery purposes, it is known as a dual-purpose fabric. This means the fabric has been tested for and passes both drapery and upholstery applications.

It’s important to keep in mind that fabrics should only be used in their correct classifications (ie. drapery) as issues are likely to surface if misused. 

If upholstery fabric is used for drapery, the thickness of the product will affect the drape, the backing will potentially delaminate, it’s more difficult to clean, premature fading can occur, and there will be issues with movement, such as shrinkage and dropping.

On the opposite side, if drapery is used in upholstery, it will wear prematurely and is high risk of tearing, there will be potential seam slippage issues, and slipping against foam.  

PET AND KID-FRIENDLY FABRICS

For families with kids and pets, choosing a good and sustaining fabric is crucial.

When it comes to children, we recommend fabrics types that are hard-wearing and easy to clean, such as: Heavy Domestic, Heavy Commercial, Halo, Lustrell, and Macrosuede.

We also recommend our HealthGuard fabrics for families with allergies as it provides long term protection against dust mite pathogens that can cause allergies, asthma, psoriasis, rhinitis, sinusitis, and even eczema symptoms. HealthGuard is also highly effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, as well as yeasts, moulds and algae.

“Bright, fun coloured fabrics that are made with natural fibres are great choices for children’s rooms.” – Tara Martin, Domayne.

Our Candy Cane range is perfect for featuring bright, fun, and colourful pattern into a space. For something less bold but still playful, our Plush and quilted Clique collection is also another great option.

For those with pets, Macrosuede is a great choice, especially for owners of cats as their claws won’t penetrate through the fabric as easily as others.

FABRIC PILLING

Most woven or knitted fabric will pill at some point. Pilling can occur occasionally as a result of normal daily wear and should not be considered as a fault. There are many variables which can trigger pilling, including climatic conditions, atmospheric purity, and environment. Even specific clothing types (fleecy tracksuits etc) can transfer pills from the clothing to the furniture fabric.

How does pilling occur?

As the fabric surface is rubbed, a single or small group of loose fibres on the surface begins to twist upon itself, forming tiny balls or ‘pills’. Often the catalyst that starts this process is a foreign fibre or speck of dirt.

Pilling is just as common at the very start of the furniture life as much as it is seen ‘in time with wear’. This is due to the fibres settling and the smaller fibres working their way to the top of the fabric.

Pilling can be successfully removed with battery operated pilling tools available from most haberdashery stores. ‘De-pilling’ only removes unsightly loose surface fibres and does not affect fabric performance.

FABRIC FADING (NATURAL VS SYNTHETIC)

Traditionally, natural fibre will fade quicker, but with changing technology, it is less about the fibre type and more about the quality of dye used — using the right dye for the fibre and the colour chosen.

Eventually, everything will fade, especially in the harsh southern hemisphere and in full sunlit rooms, so depending on the environment you are placing the fabric in, it is sometimes worth thinking about what colour will fade the slowest. Highly saturated deep tones such as black, red, purple and blue are all known to fade faster than lighter alternatives such as whites, yellows and lighter taupes.

Some fabric damage will be evident where fading is most pronounced. In situations where rooms are northerly facing or exposed to constant daylight, we recommend extra caution in selecting furnishings. In extreme environments, it might be worth selecting from our SUNDEC indoor/outdoor ranges.

ARE VELVETS HARD-WEARING?

Yes, the construction of velvets mean they are in their nature hard-wearing. This is due to a few different reasons.

With modern velvets moving away from cotton and rayon to man-made fibres, today’s velvets are not only durable and easy to clean, they are also soft and still as luxurious as ever, giving you the best of both worlds.

The construction of velvet means that it has tufts of fibre (rather than a visible weave or knit), so when the fibre is sat on or disrupted, it moves with the item rather than against it. Although velvets are hard-wearing, it does not mean they are indestructible and do not need to be maintained.

Velvet will last for decades if properly cared for. It is important to know that dust can sit between the velvet pile and therefore regular vacuuming is a must. Spot cleaning velvet is also different to other fabrics as you should never rub the fibre as this will distort the pile and make it sit unnaturally leaving ‘spots’ that can not be rectified.

For more information, be sure to read through our Care Label guide.

CLEANING

When it comes to cleaning your fabrics, it’s important to check what is recommended on your Care Label and consider using a professional to see which cleaning method is preferred.

HOT WATER EXTRACTION

The Hot Water Extraction method is where water mixed with gentle cleaning detergents is heated up to 212 degrees, creating steaming hot water that sanitises surfaces. Using industry-grade equipment, technicians then inject hot water under high pressure into the stained fabric. The hot water combined with the steam restore the upholstery fabric’s original appearance, removing any stains and dirt.

DRY CLEANING

Similar to the Hot Water Extract method, instead of using water and detergents, companies use their own chemical mix with minimal water, creating a solvent. The process also uses a high-pressure machine in a similar nature where the low moisture that is produced, combined with the chemicals used, removes any stains or spots.

For more information, be sure to read through our Cleaning Guide.  

HERE TO HELP

Here at Warwick, we want to make your next project as easy as possible!

OUR SHOWROOM SPACE IS YOUR SHOWROOM SPACE 

Our showrooms are spaces where anyone can come in and make themselves at home! The environment is like a second office or design space, and we encourage you to browse from the widest range of fabrics for all projects.

Take your time, be inspired and create!

ONE STOP SHOP
 
We have the widest range of fabrics (Upholstery, Drapery, Commercial) to choose from. From opulent and extravagant, to refined and raw, there is a textile for all situations and varying product types for home decorators.

In our showrooms, you can expand on our fabric range — there is a fabric for every situation.

FASHION ORIENTED

We are driven to continuously meet the evolving needs of today’s global textile markets by constantly creating and updating collections with the latest trends and classic designs, pushing boundaries, and creating quality products that inspire creativity in the interior design world.

We are passionate about being innovative and are committed to our promise of exceptional quality and service, now and into the future.

ONLINE SUPPORT WITH VR AND FAVOURITES

You can experience your project before it comes to life! Our Virtual Experience tool allows you to visualise Warwick Fabrics across a variety of furniture. Choose from our high-quality digital renders of interior furnishings and customise with your choice of Warwick Fabrics.

We also have a Favourites Board where you can add your favourite fabrics to and create digital projects boards to share with clients and colleagues.

FREE CUTTINGS

Whether online or in one of our showrooms, we offer a free cuttings service for everyone. This is a great way to see and feel the fabric you’re interested in first-hand and how it will look against your current interior colour scheme, as well as in the natural light of the room you are working on.

WEAVE

Once your fabric is complete, we offer rugs, cushions and throws to help finish the look and tie your style together!

In need of some interior inspiration? Head over to our Instagram for daily inspiration, or visit our Pinterest account! The sky is the limit when it comes to creating and interior design, and together, any desired project can come to life!