Velvet: The Ultimate Choice for Luxury Upholstery

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury upholstery, there is nothing quite like velvet. From grand palaces to modern homes, it plays a defining role in interior design and has a timeless appeal that will never go out of style.

When you sink into a plush velvet sofa or chair, there’s an overwhelming feeling of luxury that is hard to replicate with any other fabric. It adds a layer of indulgence, while its distinctive pile creates a rich, dense texture that catches the light in unique ways.

Whether you are looking to make a bold design statement or to add a touch of quiet elegance to your home, the versatility and beauty of velvet upholstery fabric makes it an unrivalled choice.

As with many things, however, not all velvets are created equal and several key factors must be considered to ensure you select a fabric that meets the high standards required for upholstery.

Here are some key points to guide your decision:

Fabric composition: Look at the material blend. Velvet can be made from natural fibres like silk or cotton, or synthetic fibres. Silk velvet, such as Beaumont & Fletcher’s Capri silk velvet, is by far the most luxurious and has the most incredible sheen.

Durability: Consider the fabric’s Martindale rub count, which indicates how well the velvet will withstand wear and tear. Higher counts are ideal for high-traffic areas, while lower counts may suit more decorative pieces or those for occasional use.

Pile height and density: The length of the velvet fibres (pile) and how densely they are woven affect the texture, sheen and resilience of the fabric. Shorter piles are more durable; longer piles offer a softer feel but may crush more easily.

Sheen and finish: Velvet’s appearance can vary based on its finish. Some velvets have a matte look, while others, like silk velvets, have a high sheen. Choose the one that complements your design aesthetic.

Colour fastness: Ensure that the velvet has strong colour retention and won’t fade easily when exposed to sunlight or over time. This is particularly important for upholstery in well-lit rooms. Also keep in mind that dark colours tend to show more fading.

Texture and hand feel: Test the fabric by touch. The “hand” or feel of the velvet should match your preference for softness, smoothness, or plushness, depending on the level of luxury you seek. Silk velvet, such as Beaumont & Fletcher’s Como silk velvet, is particularly soft to the touch.

Cleaning and maintenance: Some velvets, like cotton or synthetic blends, are easier to clean, while others, require professional cleaning. Choose based on the level of upkeep you’re comfortable with.

Colour selection: Luxury velvets come in a wide range of colours, from rich jewel tones to muted neutrals. Consider how the colour will complement or contrast with your existing décor. It’s also important to look at the fabric in situ as the colour can seem different in changing lights.

Crush Resistance: Some velvets are more prone to crushing (where the pile gets flattened or marked). Look for options with good recovery or ones that are “crushed” by design, so any flattening appears intentional.

Source and Craftsmanship: Opt for fabric from reputable suppliers, like Beaumont & Fletcher, who are known for producing high-quality, luxurious velvet upholstery fabrics made from the finest natural fibres. Their craftsmanship ensures the fabric’s durability, elegance and superior finish.

About Beaumont & Fletcher’s velvet upholstery fabric collection

Beaumont & Fletcher’s collection embodies the very best of what velvet has to offer, including plain cotton and silk velvets, textured velvet, mohair velvet and an incredible printed cotton velvet – Balthazar.

The luxury British brand takes this age-old fabric to new heights, offering a carefully curated range of colours and textures that allow for endless design possibilities. But what truly sets Beaumont & Fletcher’s velvet upholstery fabric apart from others is its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Each velvet fabric is meticulously woven using the finest materials, ensuring that it not only looks exquisite but also performs exceptionally well. This dedication to detail is what makes their velvet the gold standard in luxury upholstery.

Browse Beaumont & Fletcher’s velvet upholstery fabric here, discover instore or get in contact on sales@beaumontandfletcher.com to request samples.