How can I determine durability of a fabric if the Wyzenbeek or Martindale rating is not available?
What to look for:
Fabric Construction
Fabrics with tighter weaves and
higher thread counts, like denims and twills, are more durable. (Plus fabrics
with tighter weaves are generally easier to clean.) Woven fabrics are generally
more durable than printed fabrics. Fabrics woven from yarns that are the same
size and strength (known as a balanced weave) last longer than fabrics woven
from a combination of thick and thin yarns.
What to look for: Types of Fabrics
Dense plush fabrics like velvet
(especially velvets with high percentage wool mohair and linen content) and
high-end chenille will withstand abrasion very well. Leather and some of the new micro-fibers are also very
durable.
Flat surface fabrics like some
damasks, brocades, satins and silks that have long yarns on the surface, are
also subject to higher wear and lower abrasion ratings.
Summary: Fabric Durability
Whether a fabric is made from natural or synthetic fibers is not enough to determine durability. Durability is the result of a combination of
factors. If the number of double rubs (Wyzenbeek) or Martindale rating is not
available, your interior decorator or reputable experienced seller of a fabric
should be able to provide an informed and professional judgment regarding the
appropriate use of a particular fabric.
Although durability is a very
important factor to consider when investing in fabric for your home, there are
other considerations. To be continued...
COMING NEXT:
Other considerations when choosing fabrics or your home
What to look for: Types of Fabrics
Dense plush fabrics like velvet
(especially velvets with high percentage wool mohair and linen content) and
high-end chenille will withstand abrasion very well. Leather and some of the new micro-fibers are also very
durable.
Flat surface fabrics like some
damasks, brocades, satins and silks that have long yarns on the surface, are
also subject to higher wear and lower abrasion ratings.
Summary: Fabric Durability
Whether a fabric is made from natural or synthetic fibers is not enough to determine durability. Durability is the result of a combination of
factors. If the number of double rubs (Wyzenbeek) or Martindale rating is not
available, your interior decorator or reputable experienced seller of a fabric
should be able to provide an informed and professional judgment regarding the
appropriate use of a particular fabric.
Although durability is a very
important factor to consider when investing in fabric for your home, there are
other considerations. To be continued...
COMING NEXT:
Other considerations when choosing fabrics or your home
Summary: Fabric Durability
Whether a fabric is made from natural or synthetic fibers is not enough to determine durability. Durability is the result of a combination of
factors. If the number of double rubs (Wyzenbeek) or Martindale rating is not
available, your interior decorator or reputable experienced seller of a fabric
should be able to provide an informed and professional judgment regarding the
appropriate use of a particular fabric.
Although durability is a very
important factor to consider when investing in fabric for your home, there are
other considerations. To be continued...
COMING NEXT:
Other considerations when choosing fabrics or your home
Whether a fabric is made from natural or synthetic fibers is not enough to determine durability. Durability is the result of a combination of
factors. If the number of double rubs (Wyzenbeek) or Martindale rating is not
available, your interior decorator or reputable experienced seller of a fabric
should be able to provide an informed and professional judgment regarding the
appropriate use of a particular fabric.
Although durability is a very
important factor to consider when investing in fabric for your home, there are
other considerations. To be continued...
COMING NEXT: