Materials / Editorial draft

A Material Guide to Natural Textiles in the Home

Linen, wool and textured upholstery offer different possibilities for a room. A useful material decision starts with a sample, the intended use and the specification of the particular fabric.

Start with the fabric in front of you

A fibre name is a starting point, rather than a complete specification. Ask for the composition of the actual fabric, including any blend, together with its intended applications and care instructions.

Handle the sample and place it alongside the other materials in the room. Consider the colour in the room’s light and the texture against the furniture form. A small online image cannot answer every question about a material you will live with.

Linen: consider the finish and use

When exploring linen for upholstery, curtains or cushions, ask how the specific cloth is intended to be used. Look at the weight, surface and finish of the sample, rather than assuming that every linen will behave in the same way.

Discuss the level of formality you want in the room and how you feel about texture and visible variation. Those preferences belong in the material brief alongside colour and budget.

Wool: read the full specification

For a wool or wool-blend fabric, confirm its composition and the supplier’s recommended use. Compare samples at a practical scale and consider how the cloth relates to the other textures in the scheme.

Performance and maintenance information should come from the specification for the particular product. A broad description of a fibre cannot replace that information.

Bouclé: look beyond the name

Treat bouclé as a texture to investigate through the actual sample. Confirm what the fabric is made from, where the supplier recommends using it and what care it requires.

If a piece will be used every day, explain that clearly during selection. Ask about the fabric’s suitability for that use, any test information available and the practical care needed in your household.

Make the decision as part of the room

Take the same approach to every fabric: sample, specification, intended use and care. Then consider it alongside the furniture, rugs, lighting and finishes so the choice contributes to the whole interior.

Soft&Co.’s selection and specification service brings those furnishing decisions together around the brief, budget and the way you use your space.

New editorial draft for review. This is selection guidance, not a product care specification. Care and performance claims must come from the supplier for the fabric selected.