Welcome to Fabric University

Choosing the right fabric is one of the most important decisions when selecting a chair. It's what you'll touch every day, what will hold up to family life, and what will define the look and feel of your space.

At Swivels & Gliders, we carefully curate fabrics that balance beauty with durability. Whether you're drawn to the luxury softness of a velvet, the casual comfort of a linen blend, or the worry-free performance of a technical fabric, understanding your options helps you make a choice you'll love for years to come.

Let's explore what makes fabrics different, what to look for, and how to find the perfect material for your lifestyle and home.

 

Performance Fabrics

Built for real life.

Performance fabrics are engineered to resist stains, fading, and wear. They're treated with special finishes or made from synthetic fibers that make them exceptionally durable and easy to clean—perfect if you have kids, pets, or just want a chair that can handle the chaos of everyday living.

Stain Resistance

Most performance fabrics come with built-in stain protection. Spills bead up on the surface, giving you time to blot before they set in.

Easy Care

Simply vacuum regularly and spot-clean with mild soap and water. No special cleaning products needed.

Fade Resistant

UV-protective treatments keep colors vibrant even in rooms with lots of natural light.

Durability

Built to withstand frequent use without pilling, snagging, or losing their shape.

Is Performance Right for You?

Performance fabrics are ideal if you're looking for low-maintenance beauty. They're perfect for living rooms, family rooms, and homes with active households. The trade-off? They may not have quite the same luxurious hand-feel as natural fibers, though modern performance fabrics have come a long way.

Certifications & Standards

What those labels really mean.

Greenguard Gold

Greenguard Gold certification means the fabric has been tested for harmful chemicals and meets strict environmental and health standards. Fabrics with this certification have low chemical emissions, making them safer for your home and better for indoor air quality. If you're concerned about what you're breathing, look for this certification.

Oeko-Tex Standard 100

This certification ensures that fabrics have been tested for harmful substances throughout the production process. It's particularly important for natural fibers and means you're getting a product free of harmful dyes and chemicals.

Durability Ratings

You'll often see fabrics rated by "double rubs"—a measure of how many times a fabric can be rubbed before it shows wear. A higher number means it will hold up better to heavy use. For reference: light use (under 10,000 double rubs), moderate use (10,000-15,000), and heavy use (15,000+).

Common Fabric Types

From soft to structured, here's what you need to know.

Velvet

Luxuriously soft with a rich, pile texture that catches light beautifully. Velvets add elegance and depth to any space. Best for: Lower-traffic areas or those willing to care for a delicate fabric. Truly a statement maker.

Chenille

A workhorse blend that feels soft like velvet but with better durability. Chenille has a subtle texture that hides footprints and creates visual interest. Perfect for families seeking comfort without sacrifice.

Boucle

A textured, looped weave that gives a sophisticated, artisanal feel. Boucle adds depth and visual interest while remaining relatively durable. Ideal for those wanting texture with modern appeal.

Linen & Linen Blends

Classic and beautiful, linen has a natural, relaxed aesthetic. Pure linen wrinkles naturally (which many find charming), while blends add durability. Perfect for casual, coastal, or farmhouse styles.

Leather & Faux Leather

Timeless and sophisticated. Leather ages beautifully and becomes softer over time. Faux leather offers the look with easier maintenance. Both create a polished, refined space.

Microfiber

A synthetic option that mimics the feel of natural fibers while offering exceptional durability and stain resistance. Microfiber is easy to clean and perfect for households prioritizing low maintenance.

Cotton Blends

Comfortable and versatile. Cotton blends balance the natural feel of cotton with added durability from synthetic fibers. A reliable choice for everyday living.

Wool

Naturally durable, warm, and luxurious. Wool resists staining and is naturally flame-resistant. Premium option for those seeking both beauty and longevity.

Finding Your Fabric

The "right" fabric depends on your lifestyle, your space, and what matters most to you. Do you want maximum durability? Choose performance fabrics or microfiber. Craving luxury and softness? Velvet, wool, or linen are your friends. Need easy care? Performance, microfiber, or leather are your best bets.

Most importantly: choose something that makes you happy when you touch it and look at it every day. Your chair should bring you joy.

Still Have Questions?

Choosing the perfect fabric can feel overwhelming with so many beautiful options. Our design team is here to help you navigate these choices and find exactly what you're looking for.

Chat with a designer using the chat widget in the bottom right corner. We're happy to discuss fabric options, help you understand what's best for your space, and answer any questions you have.

Available Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm ET