Joanns Upholstery Fabric: Complete Guide to Furniture & Home Decor

Joanns upholstery fabric is a trusted choice for furniture and home decor projects that need both strength and style. From refreshing old furniture to creating custom cushions, Joann offers quality fabrics designed to handle daily use while enhancing the look of your space. With a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, it’s easy to find the perfect match for any interior.

What Is Upholstery Fabric and Why It Different?

Upholstery fabric is made specifically for furniture and decor items that face constant use. It is stronger than regular fabric and designed to maintain its look and structure over time. This makes it ideal for homes where comfort, durability, and appearance all matter.

What Makes Upholstery Fabric Different from Regular Fabric

Upholstery fabric is heavier and more tightly woven than standard fabric, which helps it resist tearing and stretching, unlike lighter materials such as felt or fleece. It is built to handle frequent sitting, movement, and friction without wearing out quickly. Many upholstery fabrics also include protective finishes that improve stain resistance and color longevity.

Common Uses of Upholstery Fabric in Home Decor

Upholstery fabric is widely used for sofas, chairs, ottomans, and benches throughout the home. It is also popular for decorative cushions, headboards, and window seats. These fabrics add both comfort and visual appeal while standing up to everyday use.

Upholstery Fabric for Chairs, Sofas, and Cushions

For chairs and sofas, upholstery fabric provides the durability needed for daily seating. Cushions benefit from its strength, as it helps them keep their shape and support over time. Whether for a single accent chair or a full sofa set, upholstery fabric ensures long-lasting comfort and style.

Types of Upholstery Fabric Available at Joann

Joann offers a wide variety of upholstery fabrics to suit different furniture styles, comfort needs, and usage levels. From soft and cozy textures to durable, easy-care materials, these options make it simple to choose the right fabric for any home decor project.

Fabric Upholstery Options

Fabric upholstery options at Joann include blends and specialty textiles designed for comfort and durability. These fabrics work well for sofas, chairs, and cushions used daily. With many colors and patterns available, fabric upholstery fits both modern and traditional interiors.

Vinyl Upholstery Fabric

Vinyl upholstery fabric is a practical choice for high-traffic areas and homes with kids or pets. It is easy to clean, water-resistant, and holds up well against spills and stains. This fabric is commonly used for dining chairs, benches, and utility furniture.

Cotton Upholstery Fabric

Cotton upholstery fabric offers a soft, breathable feel that works well in casual and comfortable spaces For non-furniture projects, many crafters also love working with burlap for rustic home decor. It is easy to sew and available in many prints and colors. Cotton is often blended with other fibers to improve strength and reduce wrinkles.

Velvet Upholstery Fabric

Velvet upholstery fabric adds a rich and elegant look to furniture pieces. Its smooth texture and deep color tones make it ideal for accent chairs and decorative seating. While luxurious in appearance, velvet should be used in lower-traffic areas for best results.

Chenille Upholstery Fabric

Chenille upholstery fabric is known for its plush texture and cozy feel. It provides warmth and comfort, making it a favorite for sofas and lounge chairs. This fabric is durable but benefits from regular care to maintain its soft surface.

Microfiber Upholstery Fabric

Microfiber upholstery fabric is highly durable and resistant to stains, making it great for busy households. It has a smooth finish and is easy to clean with minimal effort. This fabric is commonly chosen for family rooms and everyday seating.

Outdoor Upholstery Fabric

Outdoor upholstery fabric is designed to withstand sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes. It resists fading, mildew, and wear, making it perfect for patio furniture and outdoor cushions. These fabrics combine durability with stylish designs suitable for exterior spaces.

Fiber Content and Material Considerations

Choosing the right fiber for your furniture is essential for balancing comfort, durability, and style. Different fibers offer unique textures, resilience, and maintenance requirements, making it important to match the material to your specific needs and usage levels.

Natural Fibers vs Synthetic Fibers

Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool provide softness, breathability, and a classic appearance. Synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic are typically more durable, stain-resistant, and easier to clean. Many upholstery fabrics combine both types to achieve the benefits of comfort and strength.

Durability and Comfort Balance

Some fibers prioritize comfort, while others focus on longevity. For example, cotton and linen feel soft and breathable but may show wear faster in high-traffic areas. Synthetic blends offer a sturdier option while still providing a comfortable seating experience, making them ideal for daily use furniture

Best Fibers for High-Traffic Furniture

For furniture used frequently, fibers such as polyester, microfiber, and acrylic blends are highly recommended. These materials resist pilling, staining, and fading, making them suitable for living rooms, family rooms, and spaces with pets or children. Combining durable fibers with proper fabric care ensures long-lasting beauty and performance.

Weave Patterns and Texture Impact

The weave and texture of upholstery fabric play a key role in its durability, appearance, and overall feel. Different weaving techniques create unique patterns, affecting both the strength of the fabric and the visual style it brings to a room.

Plain Weave, Twill, and Jacquard

Plain weave is simple, durable, and versatile, making it a popular choice for everyday furniture. Twill weave creates diagonal patterns that add subtle texture and extra strength. Jacquard weave produces intricate designs and patterns, offering an elegant and decorative option for accent pieces.

How Weave Affects Strength and Appearance

Tighter weaves generally provide greater durability and resistance to wear, while looser weaves may feel softer and more breathable. The choice of weave can also influence the visual depth and pattern of the fabric, helping to define the style of your furniture.

Texture Choices for Modern vs Classic Interiors

Smooth, minimal textures suit modern interiors, providing a clean and streamlined look. Richer, more tactile textures like chenille or velvet complement classic or traditional spaces, adding warmth and sophistication. Selecting the right texture ensures both comfort and design harmony.

Durability and Performance Ratings

Understanding the durability and performance of upholstery fabric is essential for choosing the right material for your furniture. Fabrics are rated based on wear, strength, and resistance to daily use, helping you select options that match your lifestyle and furniture needs.

Abrasion Resistance Explained

Abrasion resistance measures how well a fabric holds up to rubbing and friction over time. Higher ratings indicate fabrics that can withstand heavy use without showing wear, making them ideal for busy households or frequently used pieces.

Upholstery Fabric for Heavy Use Furniture

When selecting fabric for heavy-use furniture, consider the following:

Polyester and nylon blends: Highly durable and resistant to pilling.
Microfiber: Smooth, easy to clean, and ideal for families with pets or children.

Tightly woven fabrics: Offer extra strength and longer-lasting performance.
Choosing fabrics with high abrasion resistance ensures your furniture maintains its look and comfort for years.

Indoor vs Outdoor Performance Standards

Fabrics are designed differently for indoor and outdoor use:

Indoor fabrics: Focus on comfort, aesthetics, and moderate durability.
Outdoor fabrics: Engineered to resist sunlight, moisture, mildew, and fading.

Selecting the right type ensures the fabric performs well in its intended environment and retains its quality over time.

Choosing the Right Joann’s Upholstery Fabric

Selecting the right upholstery fabric ensures your furniture looks great, feels comfortable, and lasts for years. Consider the type of furniture, how it will be used, and the level of durability required to make the best choice.

Furniture Type Matching

Different furniture pieces have varying fabric needs. Matching the right fabric to each type ensures durability and comfort:

Sofas and sectionals benefit from durable, stain-resistant fabrics.
Accent chairs can feature softer or more decorative fabrics.
Dining seating requires easy-to-clean, strong materials to handle frequent use.

Upholstery Fabric for Chairs and Dining Seating

For chairs and dining seating, consider fabrics that are:

Easy to clean: Polyester, vinyl, or blends resist spills and stains.
Durable: Fabrics with higher abrasion resistance handle frequent use.
Comfortable: Soft textures improve seating experience without sacrificing strength

Sofa, Sectional, and Loveseat Fabric Selection

For larger seating pieces, durability and comfort are key:

Microfiber and synthetic blends: Ideal for heavy-use living rooms.
Cotton or linen blends: Offer softness and breathability in moderate-use spaces.
Velvet or jacquard: Perfect for accent pieces in low-traffic areas.

Usage Level Assessment (Low, Medium, Heavy Use)

Determine fabric based on how often the furniture will be used:

Low use: Sofas or chairs in guest rooms can feature delicate, decorative fabrics.
Medium use: Everyday seating benefits from balanced durability and comfort.
Heavy use: Family rooms and high-traffic areas require robust, easy-to-clean fabrics like microfiber or synthetic blends.

Color, Pattern, and Design Selection

Choosing the right color, pattern, and design for upholstery fabric is key to creating a cohesive and stylish space. The selection affects not only the visual appeal of your furniture but also the overall mood and atmosphere of the room. Solid colors offer versatility and a timeless look, making it easy to mix and match with pillows, rugs, and other decorative elements. Patterned fabrics, on the other hand, add personality and visual interest, and can help hide minor stains or wear over time

Solid vs Patterned Upholstery Fabric

Solid fabrics provide a clean, classic aesthetic that works in nearly any interior style. They are ideal for larger pieces where a bold pattern might overwhelm the room. Patterned fabrics, including stripes, florals, and geometric designs, can create a focal point or accentuate the shape of the furniture. Choosing between solid and patterned often depends on the existing color palette, the furniture’s size, and the overall design vision.

Pattern Scale and Furniture Size

When selecting patterned fabrics, consider the scale of the design in relation to the furniture. Large-scale patterns work best on bigger pieces like sofas or sectionals, while smaller patterns suit chairs, ottomans, or accent pieces. Proper pattern scaling ensures visual harmony and prevents the furniture from appearing disproportionate or cluttered within the room.

Coordinating Upholstery with Home Decor

Matching upholstery with the rest of your home decor creates a seamless, polished look. Consider wall colors, flooring, curtains, and other textiles when selecting your fabric. You can choose complementary colors for a subtle, cohesive feel, or contrasting shades to create a bold, eye-catching statement. Accessories like throw pillows or rugs can further tie the look together

Trending Upholstery Colors at Joann

Joann regularly updates its fabric offerings to reflect current design trends. Popular colors often include soft neutrals, rich jewel tones, and muted pastels, allowing for both modern and traditional styling. For a contemporary feel, consider shades of gray, navy, or forest green, while warm earth tones and blush hues add comfort and elegance to classic interiors.

Indoor vs Outdoor Upholstery Fabric Applications

Understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor fabrics ensures that your furniture performs well and lasts longer. While indoor fabrics prioritize comfort, softness, and design flexibility, outdoor fabrics are engineered for durability and resistance to the elements. Knowing which fabric is suitable for each application helps prevent premature wear and maintains a beautiful appearance over time.

Outdoor Upholstery Fabric for Patios

Outdoor fabrics are specifically designed to withstand sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. They resist fading, mildew, and wear, making them ideal for patio furniture, outdoor cushions, and garden seating. These fabrics combine practical performance with attractive patterns and colors to enhance outdoor living spaces without compromising style.

Fade, Moisture, and Mildew Resistance

Key characteristics of outdoor fabrics include UV resistance, water repellency, and mildew prevention. Fabrics with these qualities maintain color vibrancy and structural integrity even in harsh weather conditions. Choosing fabrics with these protective properties ensures that outdoor furniture remains functional and visually appealing throughout the seasons.

Indoor Furniture with Outdoor Fabric Benefits

Some indoor furniture can benefit from the durability of outdoor fabrics, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. Using outdoor-grade materials indoors combines the ease of cleaning and long-lasting performance with the comfort and style expected in living spaces. This approach allows for practical, resilient upholstery without sacrificing aesthetics.

Designer and Specialty Upholstery Collections

Joann offers a variety of designer and specialty upholstery collections that combine style, durability, and unique textures. These collections provide options for homeowners who want to elevate their furniture with fabrics that offer both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. From high-end designer lines to easy-care fabrics, these selections cater to a wide range of tastes and needs.

Richloom Designer Upholstery Fabric Collection

The Richloom collection features high-quality fabrics designed for sophistication and durability. These textiles often include intricate patterns, rich textures, and bold colors that make statement furniture pieces stand out. While visually striking, they are also designed to withstand everyday use, combining luxury with practicality.

Performance and Easy-Clean Upholstery Fabrics

For households with pets, children, or heavy traffic, performance fabrics are ideal. These fabrics are engineered to resist stains, fading, and wear while remaining soft and comfortable. Many options allow for simple cleaning with water or mild solutions, making them a practical choice for busy living spaces

Working with Upholstery Fabric

Working with upholstery fabric requires preparation, the right tools, and careful handling to ensure professional-looking results. Essential items include heavy-duty scissors or rotary cutters, staple guns, upholstery needles, and durable thread. For a complete list of sewing machine accessories, including needles for thick fabrics, upholstery projects, whether DIY or professional, benefit from understanding fabric behavior, proper cutting techniques, and basic construction methods. Taking the time to prepare and follow steps carefully results in furniture that is both comfortable and long-lasting.

Essential Upholstery Tools and Supplies

Having the correct tools makes upholstery tasks easier and more precise. Essential items include heavy-duty scissors or rotary cutters, staple guns with appropriate staples, upholstery needles, fabric chalk or markers, measuring tape, and durable thread. Optional tools like tack hammers, webbing stretchers, and seam rippers help streamline the process and improve results.

Fabric Preparation Before Upholstering

Proper fabric preparation ensures smooth application and reduces errors. Before cutting, pre-wash or pre-shrink fabrics if applicable, iron or steam out wrinkles, and inspect for defects or inconsistencies. Pre-planning your layout and marking pieces clearly can prevent mistakes and minimize wasted material.

Cutting and Handling Thick Upholstery Fabric

Thick fabrics require careful handling to avoid fraying, uneven cuts, or stretched edges. Use sharp, heavy-duty scissors or rotary cutters and work on a stable, large cutting surface. Cutting one layer at a time or using weights to hold fabric in place can improve precision. Always leave extra yardage for seams and pattern alignment.

Popular Upholstery Projects

Upholstery projects allow homeowners to refresh existing furniture, create custom pieces, and add personalized touches to their homes. From reupholstering chairs to making cushions or headboards, these projects combine creativity with practical skill, offering both functional and decorative results.

Furniture Reupholstering Projects

Reupholstering existing furniture transforms worn or outdated pieces into refreshed, stylish statements. Whether replacing fabric on sofas, chairs, or ottomans, proper measurement, fabric selection, and attention to detail are key for a professional finish. If you’re new to sewing, consider taking online sewing classes to master upholstery techniques

Custom Cushion Creation

Creating custom cushions allows you to match fabric, style, and size precisely to your furniture or home décor. This project offers flexibility in shape, firmness, and fabric choice, making it ideal for both decorative and functional purposes

Headboard Upholstery Projects

Upholstered headboards add comfort, texture, and visual interest to bedrooms. From tufted designs to smooth, padded finishes, selecting appropriate fabric and padding ensures both comfort and durability. Headboards are a versatile project that can be customized to fit any room size or design aesthetic.

Troubleshooting Common Upholstery Issues

Even with careful preparation and execution, upholstery projects may encounter common issues. Understanding how to prevent and correct problems ensures a smooth project and professional-looking results.

Preventing Fabric Puckering

Puckering occurs when fabric is pulled too tightly or unevenly during stapling or sewing. To prevent this, maintain even tension, secure fabric gradually, and check alignment frequently. Using proper padding and underlining also helps the fabric lay smoothly.

Managing Thick Seams and Corners

Thick seams and corners can be difficult to fold or staple neatly. Trim excess fabric carefully, use precise folding techniques, and consider padding adjustments to reduce bulk. Practicing on scrap material can help develop a smoother finish.

Avoiding Pattern Misalignment

Patterned fabrics require extra attention to alignment, especially across seams and cushions. Measure carefully, plan the layout, and allow for extra yardage when cutting. Proper pinning or marking ensures motifs match seamlessly, avoiding visual disruptions.

Final Thoughts on Joann’s Upholstery Fabric

Whether you shop online or visit Joann locations near you, you’ll find the fabric selection you need. Joann will provide an extensive selection of upholstery fabrics, trims, and supplies, making it easy to complete projects of all sizes and styles. From durable, performance fabrics for everyday furniture to designer and specialty collections for statement pieces, Joann offers solutions for both practical and aesthetic needs. With proper selection, preparation, and care, any upholstery project can transform furniture into a comfortable, stylish, and long-lasting part of your home