Choosing a fabric for upholstering a headboard is likely going to come down to personal choice. There are many fabrics in many different styles, colors, and prints that can be used. Upholstery grade fabrics can be on the pricier side, but often heavyweight fabrics that are a blend of cotton and linen can work well and they are often more budget friendly.
Best Fabrics for Headboards
Here are our fabric for headboard reviews
1. Faux Leather Buffalo
Faux leather is often a popular choice for upholstering projects, including headboards. Faux leather is often quite inexpensive and can be matched to just about anything, as it generally comes in shades of browns and blacks. This line of faux leather is a heavyweight fabric and is made from 100% vinyl.
- Has a cotton flannel backing
- To clean, wipe with a damp cloth
- Faux leather can also be used for crafting projects, bags or purses, costume accents, other upholstery projects, and more
2. Hilary Farr Love It
This unique line of fabrics is just right for those looking for something different for their headboard upholstery project. The fabric is a medium to heavyweight blend of 75% cotton and 25% linen and is perfect for many different upholstery projects. Use it for headboards, chairs, ottomans, and sofas. This line of fabrics has many other unique prints as well.
- Great for making matching accent items like toss cushions and window treatments as well
- Dry clean only
- Fabric has 10,000 double rubs
3. PKL Studio Style: Concord Pane
Going for a rustic look and feel for upholstering a headboard? This fabric should be perfect. While it currently only is available in two different colors, the fabric is very versatile and can be used for many different projects. It can be used to sew accent pillows and window treatments for matching accents, as well as for many other upholstery projects.
- Fabric is tightly woven and is heavyweight
- This fabric is a blend of 65% polyester, 20% acrylic, and 15% linen
- Dry clean only
4. Kravet Basics Makawao 1611
This duck fabric is very heavyweight and is a cotton/linen blend. The print is trendy, but subtle enough that it could make a great upholstered headboard. The fabric is very versatile and is perfect for making matching accents like toss cushions, window treatments, bedding, and more.
- Can only be cleaned with dry cleaning solvent- do not saturate or use water- may require brushing
- This fabric is a blend of 75% cotton and 25% linen
- Comes in 54” width
5. Duralee Vineyard Blue/Gold Linen
This medium weight duck fabric is a blend of cotton and linen. The fabric is so unique that it is almost an art form in and of itself. The fabric is gorgeous and has a rich, textured look. Cotton and linen blends are generally very versatile and this fabric is no exception. It is great for lighter upholstery and should be perfect for upholstering a very unique headboard.
- Medium weight blend of 70% cotton and 30% linen
- Fabric is dry clean only
- Fabric is perfect for many different projects including home décor accents, pillows, duvet covers, window treatments, so matching accents can also be made
Fabric for Headboard Buying Guide
There are no hard and fast rules for what fabric you have to choose when upholstering a headboard. Ultimately, it’s going to be your decision when it comes to color, print, texture, and fabric preference. Lifestyle might also play a factor. You want fabric that is able to be easily cleaned, or fabric that can also be sewn into matching accents, a retro fabric, or a solid color. Your existing décor scheme might play a role in your decision of what fabric to purchase.
Budgeting
Upholstery fabric can run expensive, but generally the fabric is good quality and is extremely durable. If you’re prepared to spend a little bit of extra money, you can usually get fabric that will last for a long time, if properly cared for. Other medium to heavyweight fabrics can sometimes be purchased on a budget and these will sometimes work just fine for upholstery. Fabrics like faux leathers are generally VERY budget friendly and are usually easy to care for and clean.
Versatility
Many fabrics that will work for upholstery projects can also be made into matching accents. If you want matching toss cushions, duvet covers, window treatments, or even want to upholster a matching accent chair, there are many fabrics that will work for a wide variety of projects. If you keep your décor, or future décor scheme in mind, this can help in you decide which fabric, or fabrics, to purchase for your headboard project.
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