Fabric performance depends on the fiber content and fabric construction.  The countless combinations of fiber blends and the wide variety - and quality - of yarns and weaves preclude sweeping generalizations.  Still, knowing a bit about the commonly used fibers can help you to compare fabrics.

The characteristics shown below apply to the fiber used alone (100% acrylic, for example), not to blends of different fibers.  If you choose a blend such as 60% polyester and 40% rayon, the fabric may not behave more like polyester than rayon.  Its performance depends on the way the yarn is spun, the way the fabric is made and finished, and many other factors.  Ultimately, the fabric's duty rating - usually available from the manufacturer - that tells you what you need to know, and provides some recourse if the fabric fails to live up to your expectations.

All fabrics will fade to some degree in sunlight.  Whites may yellow.  Excessive exposure to sunlight can contribute to premature failure of fabrics.

(Find information on high performance fabrics below.)

Crypton Fabric

What is Crypton?
Crypton is a unique fabric system that encases every fiber of the textile with a proprietary copolymer formula P385.  Applied through a multi-staged process, the fabric is transformed into a tough but flexible, stain and water-resistant, bacterial-resistant, multi-use performance textile.

Is Crypton a surface treatment?
No!  Crypton is a process that goes so much deeper!  All of the fabric's fibers are encased during the manufacturing process with the propietary P385 formula......all the way through!

What's the best way to clean Crypton?
Most stains are removed from Crypton with plain water!  If a stubborn stain does not come off with simple water, use a powdered enzyme detergent mixed with water.  Be sure to remove excess soap completely with a clean water rinse.

Is Crypton a Moisture Barrier & why is that important?
Crypton features outstanding moisture resistance.  As a comparison, Crypton fabrics provide three times the moisture resistance of rain-repelling umbrella fabrics!  This is important because moisture or fluid that penetrates fabric can be absorbed into the under-padding of furniture and create odors or cause damage.

For what applications are Crypton fabrics best suited?
Crypton fabrics have been designed for use in hospitality, healthcare lobby seating, senior assisted living, educational, institutional, public seating, general contract, time-share, residential or other uses where practicality, performance and design are part of the textile decision.

Simulated Suedes or Microfiber Fabrics

One of the most popular fabric types in demand right now is the simulated suede fabric.  These fabrics vary from brand to brand in nap, durability and cleanability, but it is easy to find a reasonably-priced and durable simulated suede fabric that is also soft to provide a feeling of warmth in the home environment.  This type of fabric looks particularly nice on sectionals or any modern furniture.  Also looks great if you  use a contrasting color on the welting cord.

Simulated Leathers

Now you have a new choice when it comes to leather!  Using simulated leathers can be more affordable because it can be purchased by the yard instead of by the hide.  Also, it does not need to be oiled nor does it require any other maintenance.  It is breathable, supple to the touch, and looks just like real leather.  It also wears better that real leather and can be cleaned with soap & water, or even 409!  Great for antique chairs, dining room chairs or any furniture used with kids or pets ....and it looks classy.  This ain't your mother's Naugahyde!

Please feel free to contact us to inquire about any of our high performance fabrics or stop by our showroom to get the hands-on experience!

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