ADVICE & GUIDES

Textile Abbreviation Guide

Understanding Upholstery Fabric Labels

Textile Abbreviation Guide : Understanding Upholstery Fabric Labels

When choosing an upholstery fabric, it’s essential to understand the abbreviations listed on its label. These indicate the composition, treatments, durability, and intended uses of the fabric. This guide will help you decode these key details so you can make informed choices for your sofas, curtains, armchairs, or wall coverings.

Decoding Textile Fiber Abbreviations

Fabrics are made from natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic fibers. Here's a table of the main abbreviations found on fabric labels:

Natural Plant-Based Fibers

  • CO – Cotton
    Soft, breathable, absorbent, but low UV resistance.
    ➤ Ideal for: sofas, armchairs, curtains, cushions.
  • LI – Linen
    Thermoregulating, strong, wrinkles easily.
    ➤ Ideal for: curtains, tablecloths, sofas, cushions.
  • CA – Hemp
    Extremely strong, antibacterial.
    ➤ Ideal for: eco-friendly curtains and fabrics.
  • BA – Bamboo
    Light, breathable, naturally antibacterial.
    ➤ Ideal for: cushions, green textiles.
  • JU – Jute
    Thick, biodegradable.
    ➤ Ideal for: rugs, wall hangings.
  • SI – Sisal
    Durable, biodegradable.
    ➤ Ideal for: rugs, wall coverings.

Recycled & Sustainable Alternative Fibers

  • PLR – Recycled Polyester
    Strong, made from recycled plastic bottles.
    ➤ Ideal for: rugs, technical fabrics, curtains.

  • COTR – Recycled Cotton
    Less durable than new cotton but eco-friendly.
    ➤ Ideal for: cushions, decorative fabrics, tablecloths.

  • TER – Tencel (Lyocell)
    Soft, breathable, biodegradable.
    ➤ Ideal for: throws, curtains, sofas.

  • RPET – Recycled Polyethylene
    Water-resistant and robust.
    ➤ Ideal for: outdoor fabrics, technical applications.

Natural Animal-Based Fibers

  • WO – Wool
    Warm, strong, moisture-absorbing.
    ➤ Ideal for: sofas, chairs, rugs.

  • SE – Silk
    Luxurious, shiny, delicate.
    ➤ Ideal for: cushions, drapes, high-end décor.

  • WS – Cashmere
    Soft, insulating, premium feel.
    ➤ Ideal for: exclusive upholstery and textiles.

  • MO – Mohair
    Warm, strong, slightly lustrous.
    ➤ Ideal for: throws, blankets.

Semi-Synthetic Cellulose-Based Fibers

  • VI – Viscose
    Silky, flowing, absorbent.
    ➤ Ideal for: curtains, cushions, tablecloths.

  • CU – Cupro
    Smooth, breathable, biodegradable.
    ➤ Ideal for: linings, drapes, eco textiles.

  • LC – Lyocell
    Wrinkle-resistant, absorbent, eco-friendly.
    ➤ Ideal for: sustainable curtains and home décor.

Understanding the Martindale Test

The Martindale Test measures how much friction a fabric can withstand:

  • Under 10,000 cycles → Light use (cushions, curtains).

  • 10,000–20,000 cycles → Regular domestic use (chairs, sofas).

  • 20,000–40,000 cycles → Heavy use (hotels, workspaces).

  • Over 40,000 cycles → Intensive use (restaurants, public transport).

Special Finishing Codes

  • WR – Water-repellent
    ➤ Protects against spills, ideal for sofas and outdoor fabrics.

  • FR – Fire Retardant
    ➤ Slows fire spread, essential for public venues and hotels.

  • OUT – Outdoor
    ➤ UV- and moisture-resistant, designed for exterior fabrics.

  • ST – Stain-resistant
    ➤ Easy to clean, useful for high-traffic seating.

  • UV – UV-resistant
    ➤ Fades less in sunlight, ideal for curtains.

  • AC – Acoustic
    ➤ Helps dampen noise, suitable for offices and hotels.

Need help choosing the right textile? Email us at contact@sustyfabrics.com