Fabric Characteristics

At Duresta we feature natural fibres, synthetic fibres, and combinations of both across our fabric collections. Natural fibre fabrics tend to have more knots, slubs, and irregularities. These qualities should not be regarded as flaws, but instead inherent characteristics of our beautiful natural fabrics. To comply with fire regulations some of our fabrics have a back coating applied, this may affect their drape and handle. Please be mindful that some fabrics will perform differently across different seat interiors, this may alter your seating experience.

Most of our fabrics are suitable for general domestic use; meaning they pass British standards for fire regulations and performance testing. Some fabrics are only available for use on occasional chairs, footstools, scatter cushions, and/or piping. The suitable use for each fabric is clearly indicated on request, on the reverse of your fabric sample and the swatch in store.

Fabric Samples

We offer a free sample service to ensure you are happy with the colour, material, and texture of your chosen fabric. Fabric samples should only be used as a guide to colour and texture. Although great care is taken to achieve consistency, it is possible for slight variations to occur between batches.

Browse the collection

Velvet & Chenille Fabrics

Velvet and chenille fabrics have a high pile as a result of a double weaving process. There are generally two types of woven pile fabrics – velvet and velveteen. For velvet construction – the pile is shorter, less dense, and therefore more secure, whereas Velveteen fabrics have a higher pile, with a denser fibre count. Both fabrics are durable to abrasion; however, the pile can be pulled from velveteen fabrics easier than velvets.

Consequently, these fabrics can become crushed or flattened over time and at point of delivery – this can give the impression of uneven wear. Pile crushing to fabrics, such as velvets, and chenilles, should not be regarded as a fault but, instead a natural characteristic of these fabrics. Crushed piles can be easily restored by brushing, cleaning, and steaming by a professional upholstery cleaner.

To view and request fabrics from the Duresta Velvet Collection, click the link below

Duresta Velvets

Fabric Suitability

When selecting from the Duresta fabric collection care should be taken to ensure your chosen fabric is suitable for your needs as well as protecting your upholstery to avoid damage:

  1. Avoid leaving furniture in direct sunlight, as this can cause fabrics and leather to fade. Prolonged exposure to sunlight (such as a conservatory) can also cause certain fibre types to
    break down and become weak.
  2. Avoid leaving your furniture too close to fires or radiators, as significant changes in temperature can cause materials in your furniture to expand and contract which can lead to  premature wear and tear.
  3.  Certain fabrics with long weaving stitches are vulnerable to snagging by sharp objects such as buckles, studs, rings, children’s toys, and pets.
  4. Fabrics that are deemed suitable for general domestic use have a Martindale abrasion pass result of 20,000 rubs or more (figured weaves are suitable from 15,000 rubs). General care and maintenance will ensure your Duresta furniture has a long-lasting lifespan.

General care and maintenance will ensure your Duresta furniture will feel comfortable and look beautiful for many years to come.

For more information on how to care for your fabric upholstery click the link below

Fabric Care Information

Leather Care

There is much to consider when choosing leather furniture, as there are a great variety of qualities and finishes available. At Duresta, we only use the finest quality leather, sourced from around the world, and upholstered to the highest standards. We endeavour to retain the natural beauty and integrity of good quality materials.

Our hides are completely natural. Wrinkles, scars, scratches, and bites, together with the varied and interesting textures and colour effects are what reveal the full character and beauty of the material. It is important to understand that these characteristics will be present. This natural hallmark distinguishes top grain aniline and semi-aniline leather from lower grade leathers.

For more information on how to care for your leather upholstery, click the link below for our FAQ’s.

Leather care instructions