Choosing the right fabric

WORDS: Alma Viviers

Interior designer David Strauss gives a few tips on how to pick the right fabric and other materials for your home.

Knowledge

Ask your service provider about the pros and cons of all the fabrics you’re considering so that you choose the correct one for the job. When buying curtains, for example, it pays to be aware that natural fabrics such as cotton and linen will fade and age quickly in direct sunlight.

Quality

Always buy the best-quality fabric that your budget allows.

Natural

David prefers natural textiles and linen is one of his absolute favourites. He loves the de Le Cuona range available from Mavromac and Hertex’s affordable linen range.

Feel

David is not a fan of colour charts. He prefers to choose a collection of fabrics that share the same “feel” rather than colour palette. 

Texture

Play with different textures such as linen, leather and cotton. David favours neutral colours and rough textures for large pieces of furniture such as couches, and over-the-top, luxurious fabrics for smaller items including scatter cushions.

One of his favourites is the Roots range from Mavromac, a blend of silk and cotton.

Service providers

David often uses Supreme Upholsterers for upholstery and Best Blinds for making curtains.

David Strauss: 082 565 1607, davidstrauss@mweb.co.za