Fabric Sofa Buying Guide

Why go for a fabric sofa?
Fabric sofas are a timeless choice—and for good reason. They offer unmatched flexibility, solid durability, and a huge range of colours and styles to match any décor. Want something compact and stylish for a modern, luxe look? A smaller velvet sofa might be perfect. Need something practical for a busy household with kids and pets? A Resilience corner sofa could be your go-to.

How to find the right fabric sofa for your home
Once you've decided that fabric is the way to go, the next step is choosing the type that best suits your needs. Think cord only belongs in your wardrobe? Unsure if chenille is a fabric or a drink? Here’s a closer look at some of the top materials to consider.

Velvet Sofas
Velvet brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to any living space. Known for its incredibly soft texture and subtle sheen, both velvet and crushed velvet sofas add a rich, luxurious feel and an ultra-comfortable seat—perfect for those who want a little Hollywood glamour in their home.

Bouclé Sofas
On-trend and ultra-inviting, bouclé is a fabric that combines style with softness. It’s the go-to for anyone who wants a modern yet cosy aesthetic that still makes a strong design statement.

So, what exactly is bouclé?
Bouclé refers to a fabric made from looped yarn, giving it a unique, textured feel often described as curly or nubby. The name comes from the French word boucler, meaning “to curl.” Bouclé can be crafted from various materials including wool, cotton, linen, and synthetic fibers.

Pets and Fabrics: No fabric is pet perfect, but the smoother the fabric, the easy wiped it is and also a lot easier to brush off hairs.

Here’s a deeper dive:

  • What it is: A weaving or knitting method, not a specific fibre type.

  • How it looks: The loops create a textured, almost fleece-like surface.

  • What it's made from: Typically wool, but also cotton, silk, and synthetics.

  • Where it's used: Popular in upholstery like sofas and chairs, as well as in fashion pieces like jackets and knitwear.

  • A bit of history: Bouclé rose to fame mid-20th century—think Chanel’s iconic suits or Saarinen’s Womb Chair—and it’s enjoying a big revival today.

  • Why it’s great: Soft, warm, stylish, and durable—perfect for adding texture and character to your home or wardrobe.

Chenille Sofas
Chenille remains a favourite for a reason—it’s soft, durable, and versatile enough to complement any interior. Whether you’re furnishing a compact flat or a busy family room, chenille provides both comfort and resilience in a range of styles and colours.

Why choose a fabric sofa at all?
Fabric sofas strike a great balance between comfort, style, and practicality. With so many different textures and finishes available, you can easily find a fabric that works for your lifestyle—whether that’s a silky velvet loveseat, a timeless cotton design, or a plush teddy-style corner sofa for movie nights. And despite what you might think, many fabric sofas are surprisingly low maintenance when it comes to cleaning and upkeep.

But are fabric sofas durable?
Yes—and more than you might think. The longevity of your fabric sofa largely depends on the type of material used. Tightly woven options like jumbo cord resist snagging and hold up well in pet-friendly homes. Chenille, while not as pet-proof, can still handle the rough and tumble of family life with ease.

Fabric vs Leather: Which is better?
Choosing between the two often comes down to personal preference. Fabric sofas are synonymous with softness and cosiness, offering far more options in texture and colour. Leather, on the other hand, offers a classic, polished look and is widely considered the most hard-wearing option. It also develops character over time, with a patina that adds to its charm. That said, leather sofas are often available in fewer colour choices compared to fabric.

Still unsure? Fabric or Leather?
Both options are comfortable and stylish, so your final decision should reflect your lifestyle and taste. If you’re leaning toward leather, take a look at our detailed leather sofa buying guide for more insights.

Ready to take the next step?
Before placing your order, make sure to measure your space carefully to avoid any delivery-day issues. Don’t forget to check access routes as well!
Once that’s sorted, visit our Newry store where our sofa specialists are ready to help you find or create the perfect piece for your home.

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