Just a little ‘fabrication’

Fabric plays a pivotal role in the world of interior designing. In fact, it is considered one of the core elements of interior design. The general consensus is that the purpose of fabric is limited, but in reality, the choice of fabric can have a pronounced impact on the interior of a house. For example, you can completely transform the look of a room just by changing the curtains or the cushion covers. 

Considering that there are multiple options to choose from, selecting a single fabric for your home may be difficult. Hence, you should count in a few factors before making a purchase decision. For high traffic areas of the house like the living room, you should pick sturdy fabrics that are easily washable. Whereas you can use delicate fabric in a reading room. 

Fabrics can be divided into two broad categories — natural and man-made. Then comes the blended fabric which is a mix of natural and man-made fabric. Enlisted below are some of the most popular fabric choices for interior decoration.  

Cotton
Soft and breathable, cotton is known for its absorbent as well as durable nature. This natural fabric can withstand high temperature, harsh detergent and bleach, making it the perfect choice for the bedroom. Moreover, it can hold the patterns well. Cotton is suitable for drapes, curtains, furniture covers and pillow covers. However, the fabric tends to stain easily and it requires frequent washings. 

Silk
Associated with luxury and comfort, silk has remained popular for centuries. And, if you are looking to up the glam quotient of your house, it should be your go-to option. Available in multiple textures, silk has a natural sheen to it and is mostly used for pillow and upholstery covering. The major drawback of this fabric is that it is not durable. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid using it in high traffic areas and in the children’s room. 

Rayon
Commonly known as ‘art silk’ among designers, rayon is more practical for daily use in comparison to silk. Characterised by its bright shiny texture, this semi-synthetic fabric can add a chic factor to your interiors. Since it is prone to wrinkles, it’s better to use rayon in places that are not easily accessible to guests and children. 

Acrylic
Acrylic is a synthetic fibre that can be used as an alternative to wool. Soft yet durable, it is resistant to sunlight and does not fade easily. Acrylic fibre can hold colour for years, which makes it an ideal fabric for home décor. It can be used as covers for furniture, pillows, bedding and upholstery. In summer months, however, acrylic may not be a good choice as it is heat absorbing.  

Polyester
With many finishes available, polyester is known for its durable and resilient traits. Polyester blends are more popular when it comes to interior designing. Since the fabric is resistant to wrinkles, it can be used for furniture covers and sitting areas. Another major advantage polyester has over natural fabrics is its ability to hold shape and handle day-to-day use. 

Leather
Leather is a natural fabric that can elevate the aesthetical appeal of your home. While it does require regular maintenance, leather is an excellent choice if you want to make a statement. However, you should keep in mind that leather can’t withstand sunlight and it wrinkles fast. 

When it comes to choosing the fabric for your home, the options are plenty. Instead of blindly following the designing trends, you’d do well by picking the ones that go with your lifestyle. If you are having a hard time while choosing a particular fabric, you can always consult with a professional for a second opinion.

(The writer is partner at Vaya Home)