One thing you will always notice in interior design is the use of fabrics. We designers love fabrics – mixing and matching them, playing with color, texture, pattern and movement. From throw blankets and pillows to bedding, upholstery, drapery treatments and wall hangings, fabric plays an integral role in home décor and design.

When it comes to utilizing fabric, however, designers need to know what types of fabric to use for each application. We must be aware of durability, cleanability and resistance to staining and fading.

For example, outdoor fabric can be used indoors but not many indoor fabrics can be used outdoors; leather and silk must be away from direct sunlight to avoid fading; durable fabrics should be used in heavy-traffic areas; knit, lace or loosely woven fabrics have no place around dogs, cats or children.

A major component of a designer’s job is to create a functional, usable space, not just a beautiful one. So, we need to keep all of these things in mind.

Below is a list of some common and uncommon fabric types and designers’ recommended applications for each.

A is for Angora. Refers to the actual hair of an Angora rabbit. Very similar to mohair (comes from the Angora goat) and cashmere (comes from the cashmere goat). Angora is known for its silky texture and is much warmer and lighter than wool due to the hollow core of the angora fiber. Uses include knitting yarn and felting, throw blankets and pillows.

B is for Barkcloth. A textured, woven and usually printed cotton fabric popular in the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s as an interiors fabric. Prints were often large vines, leaves and florals. Historically, the fabric has been used in home furnishings such as curtains, drapery, upholstery and slipcovers.

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