Primoends: Know Your Fabric

Explore the Best Fabrics for Drapery, Upholstery & Stylish Home Decor

At Primoends – Home Decor to Go, we believe that choosing the right fabric transforms any room. Whether you're styling luxurious curtains, upholstering a statement piece, or adding textured throw pillows, the right material makes all the difference. Here's your go-to guide for high-quality, stylish, and durable interior design fabrics.

 

1. Canvas Fabric

Best for: Heavy-duty upholstery, ottomans, accent furniture

A plain-weave fabric known for its strength and durability, canvas is traditionally made from cotton or linen. Its rugged texture makes it ideal for footstools, benches, or DIY upholstery projects.

Fun Fact: Originally used for sails and tents in ancient China (3000 BC).

2. Twill Fabric

Best for: Drapery, cushion covers, tailored upholstery

Twill’s signature diagonal weave creates a thicker, more durable material that drapes beautifully and hides stains well — making it perfect for high-traffic furniture and elegant window treatments.

Did You Know? Patterns like herringbone and houndstooth are variations of twill.

3. Herringbone Fabric

Best for: Sophisticated curtains, textured upholstery

This variation of the twill weave forms a striking chevron “V” pattern, adding timeless elegance to drapery and formal furniture.

Origin: Popularized in 19th-century Ireland for outerwear and now beloved in modern home décor.

4. Satin Fabric

Best for: Glamorous drapery, decorative pillows, luxe table linens

With its soft, lustrous sheen, satin adds a touch of glam to any space. Best used in formal living areas or bedrooms to bring elegance and soft light reflection.

5. Shantung Fabric

Best for: Sheer drapes, Roman shades, table runners

A crisp, textured fabric with subtle sheen and irregular slubs, shantung brings visual interest to light-filtering curtains and decorative accents.

6. Velvet Fabric

Best for: High-end upholstery, blackout drapes, statement cushions

With its soft pile and deep color saturation, velvet adds drama and warmth. Excellent for insulating drapes and accent furniture.

Cultural Touch: Velvet was the fabric of royalty — and still makes a room feel regal.

7. Trellis Print

Best for: Roman shades, accent pillows, statement curtains

A bold and symmetrical design inspired by garden trellises and Moroccan motifs. Perfect for adding structure and flair to contemporary or bohemian spaces.

8. Damask Fabric

Best for: Formal curtains, classic upholstery, tablecloths

A reversible, woven pattern that exudes tradition and elegance. With origins in Damascus, damask brings timeless charm to classic or vintage-style interiors.

9. Ticking Stripe

Best for: Farmhouse-style upholstery, bedding, slipcovers

Once used for mattresses, ticking stripe is now a favorite for rustic or coastal designs. Its narrow stripes pair beautifully with natural wood tones and light fabrics.

10. Awning Stripe

Best for: Statement curtains, bold accent chairs, sunroom upholstery

Inspired by storefront awnings, this wide-striped fabric adds energy and contrast to any room. Great for sunrooms, patios, or statement curtains.

11. Ikat Fabric

Best for: Curtains, boho cushions, wall hangings

A distinctive dyed-yarn fabric with soft, blurred patterns. Ikat adds global charm and a handcrafted feel — perfect for bohemian or eclectic spaces.

12. Jacquard Fabric

Best for: Formal upholstery, window treatments, heirloom pieces

This richly textured weave embeds patterns directly into the fabric. Ideal for traditional decor, jacquard elevates everything from drapes to sofas.

13. Suede (Synthetic)

Best for: Upholstery, soft furnishings, accent chairs

Synthetic suede offers the luxe feel of leather with more durability and lower maintenance. Perfect for soft headboards, modern chairs, and pillows.

4. Cashmere (Blends)

Best for: Throw blankets, soft cushion covers

While not common for heavy upholstery, cashmere blends are great for soft decorative elements. Think snuggly throws or plush accent pillows.

Fabrics Less Commonly Used in Interior Design

We recommend avoiding the following for home decor purposes due to delicacy or stretch:

  • Chiffon – too sheer and delicate for practical home use
  • Lycra/Spandex/Elastane – not suited for upholstery or drapery applications

 

Shop Primoends: Home Decor to Go

From textured twills to luxurious velvets, we carry premium fabrics perfect for any home decor project. Whether you’re a DIYer, interior designer, or just revamping your space — we have the fabric you need to bring your vision to life.