Is your Upholstery Fabric durable enough?

When you are choosing a fabric it is important to choose the correct fabric for your intended use. Wear ratings help to determine how strong or abrasion resistant a fabric is. This helps classify fabrics for light, medium or heavy duty applications. The Wyzenbeek and Martindale tests are two different methods that measure abrasion resistance for residential and commercial fabrics. 

The Wyzenbeek method consists of individual samples from the warp and weft direction are then rubbed back and forth with an approved fabric used as the abradant.  The number of double rub cycles achieved before two yarn breaks occur or noticeable wear is observed is recorded as the fabric's abrasion rating. The Wyzenbeek method is the standard method used in North America.

The Martindale method is an oscillating test where the fabric is r,000ubbed in a figure eight motion using a sample of worsted wool.  The number of cycles that the fabric can endure before fabric shows objectionable change in appearance ( yarn breaks, piling, holes) is counted.  Number of cycles determines abrasion rating. The Martindale method is popular in the UK and Europe.

Recommended Double Rubs for Residential Application:

Delicate Duty-Less than 3,000 double rubs. Recommended for more decorative use, such as draperies and pillows.

Light Duty-3,000-9000 double rubs. Recommended for formal or occasionally used furniture.

Medium Duty-9,000-15,000 double rubs. Versatile for various daily-use furniture

Heavy Duty-30,000+ double rubs. Perfect for frequently used furniture, like the family room sofa and chairs.