Choose velvet for upholstery that is used hard, for deep colour and for a soft, warm feel; choose linen for a lighter, matt and relaxed look, and for curtains that let the light through. Both ed in Penrose Prowl Jura velvet.
01How hard-wearing is each?
Upholstery fabric is tested by rubbing it until it wears, measured on the Martindale scale. Around 15,000 rubs suits light domestic use and 25,000 or more suits everyday seating. Our recycled velvet is tested to 40,000 rubs and our natural linen to 20,000, so velvet is the safer choice for a family sofa or dining chairs, and linen for occasional chairs, cushions and headboards.
| Recycled velvet | Natural linen | |
|---|---|---|
| Rub count (Martindale) | 40,000 | 20,000 |
| Weight | 540 g/m² | 250 g/m² |
| Width | 138 cm | 144 cm |
| Price | £179 per metre | £159 per metre |
| Best for | Sofas, dining chairs, headboards, heavy curtains | Curtains, blinds, cushions, light upholstery |
02Cleaning, pets and everyday life
Our velvet pile is made from recycled polyester, so spills can be wiped with a damp cloth and it is far more forgiving than silk or cotton velvet. Linen is natural and breathable but absorbs spills faster; ask for a stain-resistant treatment for seating. With pets, a tight velvet usually fares better than an open linen weave, which claws can catch.
03Colour and pattern
The same artwork looks different on each cloth. Velvet deepens every colour and gives the drawing a rich, saturated finish; linen gives a quieter, matt colour with a gentle texture. Order a sample of each in the same pattern and compare them side by side in your own room.
04Curtains and blinds
For curtains, linen drapes softly and filters daylight, especially unlined. Velvet makes heavier, more insulating curtains that block light and sound, and both look best lined and interlined, with the pattern matched across each width.
05Our recommendation
- Sofas, armchairs and dining chairs: velvet.
- Headboards: velvet for softness and wear, linen for a lighter room.
- Curtains: linen for light and drape, velvet for warmth and darkness.
- Cushions: either, often both in the same scheme.
Every pattern in our fabric library is printed to order in England on both cloths. Browse velvet or linen, or order samples at £4.20 each, with free postage.
