upholstery fabric

[wind_pilot]

I am choosing new upholstery for my boat and have been advised by one upholstery company that I should only have fabric with less than 3% cotton. This makes sense to me. However the choice of suitable fabrics with low cotton, high durability,etc etc is limited. I am disconcerted to find that other companies have not told me this and happily offer a wider range of pattern books with fabrics made of a high percentage of cotton. I like some of the cottony fabrics and would like to choose from a wider range, but do not want a rotten, mildewed saloon in a few seasons!! Has anyone any knowledge to enlighted me?

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[Goldie]

We've been told much the same, but with the exception of C&J who volunteered the information, only when we asked the question. Nobody has quantified a figure, but the consensus is that the % of cotton should be low. We have found a lot of material - some of which is in use by commercial yacht builders, with up to 65% cotton content. There are suitable fabrics around though, have you seen the "micro-care" range for example? Try your local fabric shops or department stores as if you give them the manufacturer's reference number, most upholsterers would be able to source your choice. We are down to a short list and anticipate a decision soon. What I would say, is that we have found this sector of the marine industry keen to help and prompt to reply - a rarity these days. Hawkes House in Fareham also have a good selection of materials and were very helpful. One final word - avoid linen content, it becomes very damp and clammy to the touch, even on dry boats.

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[BarryH]

Look thru the fabric sample books and choose one that has the Trevira trade mark. Also look at the gsm. Go for one thats at least 250gsm which is basically the fabric weight. Normal upholstery fabric start around the 290/300gsm mark.
If plain fabrics stay away from vat dyed stuff. If you can find an upholsterer that will use your own fabric then look at buying your own from the mills. Companies such as Pinewood and Moygashel and Hardy's will supply direct if your order is over 15/20 mtrs.
The fabric should be flame retardant for upholstery. Look for one thats got the Pyrovatex mark. Stay away from Protiflam as its just a fabric "dressing". Fabrics like Trevira are inherintantly flame retardant. Cotton treated with Pyrovatex will need reproofing after cleaning.

I know.....I'm a sad git!

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[boatmike]

Be assured Barry that anyone who knows what they are talking about will be labelled a sad git........!
Know where I can buy a new anorak? Mine's worn through.......

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[wind_pilot]

Thank you for the reply, which is most helpful. What are you doing about the Martindale rub test? What is the lowest you are willing to go? I will go to Hawkes House, because like you I am in Gosport. I am finding it hard to find something which is warm and light in colour and yet won't show dirt.

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[wind_pilot]

Thank you very much. This is so helpful. Are you in agreement that it should be low cotton?

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[BarryH]

I can make you lots of things....anoraks..no......unless you want a nice chintzy one but stripes and checks are back in fashion. Also a nice faux suede one would be right upto the min in the fashion stakes..........ooh hows that for subltle fred drift!

Sorry back on track. WP.... yes go for low cotton content is the upholstery is non removeable.If you can remove the covers then not too much of a prob here. Most cottons will launder quite happily in a domestic machine at a low temp without massive shrinkage.
In saying that most "cottons" are more than likely a mix with 60-80% polyester. Finding a pure cotton for upholstery is rare. For a high or pure cotton of upholstery weight you'd be looking at deck chair canvas!

Man made fibres such as Trevira and Lanvera have become the norm for upholstery nowdays. If you use companies for the work like Hawke House or Toomer and Hayter you won't go far wrong. But being "marine" companies you'll pay "marine" prices. Have a look thru the yellow pages and have a phone around.

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[Goldie]

I haven't got a definite minimum, but the micro-care which we looked at was 80000rubs which seems more than adequate. You say that you're looking for something light? One of the upholsterers I spoke to for "independent" advice, well away from our home area, said not to worry about going for a light colour with micro-care as it shrugs off just about everything (e.g. red wine). Apparently it was designed for some uses in the medical profession and is proofed against all the bodily fluids you can think of - and some you don't want to!! We haven't made a final decision yet, but whether we go for this wonder material or not depends on colour, we've heard exceptionally good things about the fabric. Speak to C&J who have another fabric (the LATTIS, by GRADUS), which seems to do much the same for less cash, albeit in a more limited range of colours. Incidentally, having looked at hundreds of swatches, we've yet to find the shade of powder blue that we're looking for. If you know of any other places in the area with a good selection, I'd be delighted to hear.

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