Velvets

Velvets are synonymous with luxury, comfort, softness and relaxation. They can also be incredibly hard wearing. These two elements therefore make them the perfect go to fabric for a variety of different uses.

People tend to love velvets because the pile gives velvet its distinctive look and feel, the fibres fall in one direction so the appearance can change depending on from which angle you are looking at it. This maximizes velvet’s reflective properties and gives it its opulent finish.

What is a Velvet?

Velvet is a soft fabric with a unique almost shiny appearance. The main characteristics are short piles which allow it to drape beautifully, meaning velvet can lend itself to a wide range of uses including clothes, accessories, furniture, curtains and crafts.

Velvet refers to the process of how velvet is produced with the actual composition of velvets varying – silks, polyesters, rayon, mohair and cottons to name a few. The term velvet therefore relates to the production rather than the actual composition, as opposed to something like a wool which relates to the composition of the fabric, rather than the production.

How is Velvet produced?

Velvet production remains a complex process requiring a very specific loom. For this reason, well-made velvet can be expensive.

The fibres are woven on a special loom to create two different thicknesses at the same time. They are later separated by being cut apart to create the wonderful short pile that velvets are synonymous with.

How do you care for your velvet?

Since velvets can be produced using a variety of different fibres, it is important to know about the individual behaviour of the velvet you are choosing. This will indicate how you need to care for your velvet and what you can expect from its performance.

A velvet made entirely from silk is rare and will therefore have a hefty price tag, it will require much care due to its delicate nature and specialist cleaning will always be required. A velvet made from polyester can be cleaned in various ways, some are wipeable and some can withstand a cold or luke warm wash in a washing machine, making this perfect for busy households and contract environments. Viscose velvet’s can look incredible but beware some can mark forever with a little moisture.

Most velvet’s can be vacuumed as hidden dirt can build up in the pile and can be aggressive on the cloth itself whilst harbouring smells, although always do an initial test on a hidden area. Regular vacuuming will help extend the life of your velvet sofa as will turning your cushions, which as a bonus, also helps to extend the life of your cushion interiors.