Can it be that poolside-sitting weather is finally upon us? Perhaps you’re getting ready to retrieve your patio soft goods from their storage containers for another season of outdoor relaxation and recreation? How is that going? Do they remain seasonally stunning, or might they look like they’ve been adrift in the Severn for a spell?
No matter, there’s still time to style up a pleasing patio scene with best-in-class fabrics that stand the test of time while lending grace to your outdoor space.
What makes it last?
Maybe a better question is, what are your outdoor living goals? The truth is, not all upholstery fabrics are created equal. For some people this is of little consequence; while for others having to replace their pillows, cushions, umbrellas, and cabana drapes once upon a season is a story they have heard one time too often.
Once you have assessed your needs, you’ll want to be aware of these buzzwords before you head out on your next cushion excursion:
Acrylic:
Synthetic and man-made, fabrics made from acrylic fibers are widely used for outdoor applications primarily for its water-resistant properties. Acrylic is also known for its resistance to fading and mildew. It’s soft to the touch, quick-drying, and resists shrinking. For the long-haul, however, some of these fabrics may pill over-time and show signs of chafing. They are also highly flammable, so steer clear of the fire pit if you’re choosing this popular option. These fabrics are best for consumers who wish to update their outdoor patio panoramas more frequently, perhaps as much as every summer, because these fabrics are option-rich and seasonally thrifty.
Polyester:
Another commonly used material for outdoor fabrics is polyester. It is not inherently waterproof, however, so it is most often treated with additional coatings or finishes such as silicone, or polyurethane to enhance its durability and resistance. The coating process plumps up the fabric giving it more elastic properties and a filmy surface feel. This additional affordable and durable option is also hypoallergenic.
Sunbrella:
Perhaps the most popular brand of high-performance outdoor fabric because of its affiliation with mass market retailers like Pottery Barn, Sunbrella fabrics are often made from acrylic, or a blend of acrylic and other materials known for their UV resistance, water repellency, and ease of maintenance. Other brand contenders that get high marks in this category are U.S.A.-based Bella-Dura Fabrics and InsideOut Performance Fabrics.
Olefin:
Also known as polypropylene, Olefin is a synthetic fiber that is resistant to moisture, mold, and fading. It is often used for outdoor rugs, cushions and upholstery. Olefin is used in high-quality brands, such as GeoBella, known for its beautiful and touchable texture. While often compared to Sunbrella fabrics, Olefin is classified mostly as an indoor fabric that can be used outdoors, where Sunbrella is exclusively made for outdoors.
What’s hot?
That pesky ol’ color of the year, Peach Fuzz, continues to pop up on our design radar and while you may have never dreamed of going in that direction outdoors, our style spies are loving how it well it works with waterside surroundings. Sunbrella fabric offerings come in a variety of textured solids, subtle stripes, and geometric patterns. So inspiring! Ready to head back out to the patio? It’s pillow-puffing and crab-cracking season once again!
Solution-Dyed:
Manufacturers of premium fabrics for outdoor living like Perennials, a trendsetter in luxury fabric for poolside and boat, use a process called 100 percent solution-dying technology to enhance and sustain the color and pattern of outdoor fabrics. This process adds color pigments during the fiber production process which results in a more fade-resistant and durable fabric. These fabrics are often considered more natural-looking and feeling, as well. Many manufacturers will offer a five-year warranty on a solution-dyed fabric.
Oh, what a tangled web?
Not really, but it does pay to know the particular weave of a fabric when you’re seriously considering making an investment in new outdoor soft goods.
Among the most popular weaves in outdoor fabrics are plain, twill, and slub weave. The simple crisscross pattern of the yarns in a plain weave intersects at right angles creating a balanced and strong fabric that is durable, smooth, and easy to care for.
Twill weave creates a diagonal pattern by interlacing its warp and weft threads. Each weft thread passes over a certain number of warp threads before going under, creating its distinct diagonal line. Twill weaves are known for their durability, flexibility, and characteristic diagonal appearance. The most popular heavy-duty fabric, canvas, for example, is a tightly woven material created from either a plain or twill weave. Every proper Marylander is familiar with the abilities of this boat-friendly, workhorse fabric.
The yarn fibers in a slub weave involve intentional irregularities, or thicker sections of yarn, that create a more textured or uneven surface than a plain weave. This type of weave allows for a greater degree of visual interest within the fabric, or even a more handcrafted look.
