Can Drapery Fabric Be Used for Upholstery?
TL;DR;
Yes, drapery fabric can be used for upholstery, but only in specific situations. It depends on the fabric’s weight, weave, durability, and intended use. In this post, Simply Windows explains when it works, when it doesn’t—and how to do it right.
What’s the Difference Between Drapery and Upholstery Fabric?
Drapery and upholstery fabrics serve very different purposes—and knowing those differences is the key to making the right decision.
Weight, Weave, and Thread Count
- Drapery fabric is generally lightweight, designed to hang gracefully without stiffness.
- Upholstery fabric is thicker, often tightly woven, and made to endure pressure, friction, and frequent use.
- Thread density and weave tightness are much higher in upholstery-grade fabric to withstand wear and tear.
Durability Metrics: Double Rub Count and Abrasion Resistance
- Upholstery fabrics often include a
double rub rating—a durability measure simulating wear from sitting down and standing up.
- 15,000 double rubs or more = Commercial grade
- 9,000–15,000 double rubs = Medium-use furniture
- Less than 9,000 = Light-use only
- Most drapery fabrics don’t list this metric, so testing or reinforcing may be needed.
Fire Retardancy and Coating
- Drapery fabrics may lack flame resistance coatings or treatments.
- Upholstery fabrics often comply with fire safety standards, especially in commercial settings.
Key Difference: Drapery fabric is decorative and lightweight. Upholstery fabric is durable and strong. Choose based on usage.
Can You Really Use Drapery Fabric for Upholstery? (The Short Answer)
You can use drapery fabric for upholstery, but only if you’re strategic.
When It’s Okay
- Decorative furniture that doesn’t get daily use:
- Accent chairs
- Ottomans
- Headboards
- Furniture in low-traffic areas like guest rooms or formal living rooms
When It’s Not
- High-traffic seating like sofas, family room chairs
- Kid or pet zones where durability is essential
- Any piece meant for everyday use or commercial spaces
What to Look For
- Medium to heavy-weight drapery fabric
- Tight weave with little stretch
- Dense thread count for added strength
If you're asking,
can you upholster furniture with curtain fabric?—the answer is yes, but know the risks and limitations.
Best Curtain Fabrics for Upholstering
Not all drapery fabrics are created equal. Some are up to the task; others aren't. Before selecting one, it helps to understand the Three Different Types of Drapes and how their construction influences strength and usability.
Fabric Types That Work Well
- Cotton Duck – sturdy, crisp, and often used in casual furniture
- Canvas – tough, natural texture, easy to reinforce
- Heavy Linen – elegant but breathable, ideal for headboards or occasional chairs
- Polyester Blends – wrinkle-resistant and strong, often pre-treated
Fabrics to Avoid
- Silk – beautiful but fragile, stains easily
- Voile – extremely sheer and lacks structure
- Sheer Polyester – not strong enough for tension or stretch
- Rayon – prone to wrinkling, lacks durability
Always test a swatch: tug it, stretch it, even sit on it if possible. You’ll know instantly if it’s sturdy enough.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Using Drapery Fabric for Upholstery
Benefits
- Cost-effective – Drapery fabric is often cheaper than upholstery-grade
- Wider variety – More patterns, colors, and design choices
- Great for DIY – Easy to cut and sew for beginners
Drawbacks
- Durability issues – Most won’t withstand years of use
- Requires reinforcement – Needs backing, interfacing, or double-layering
- Can sag – If not installed with tension in mind
Furniture Use Suitability Table
| Use Level | Drapery Fabric Suitability |
|---|---|
| High-use (daily) | Not recommended |
| Medium-use | Only with heavy-weight, reinforced fabric |
| Low-use | Acceptable with proper prep |
Caring for Drapery Fabric Used on Furniture
Maintenance is a big deal. Drapery fabric isn’t as forgiving as traditional upholstery when it comes to everyday messes.
Cleaning Tips
- Vacuum Weekly – Reduces dust buildup and fabric degradation
- Spot Clean Immediately – Use mild detergent and blot (don’t rub)
Note: Check with fabric care instructions
- Avoid Direct Sunlight – Fading is more common with lightweight fabrics
Longevity Tips
- Rotate cushions if possible
- Avoid overexposure to pets or children
- Reapply stain guard every 6–12 months
Extending the life of DIY upholstered items starts with good maintenance habits.
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions
