When it comes to creating comfortable, durable, and visually appealing furniture, upholstery materials make all the difference.
From the unseen springs and webbings that provide structure and support, to the PU foam that ensures comfort, and the fabrics like non-woven fabric and 600D polyester that complete the look, every element plays a crucial role.
The list of upholstery materials is extensive, with each serving a specific purpose that contributes to the overall quality and finish of the piece.
Whether you’re a professional upholsterer, a furniture maker, or a DIY enthusiast, understanding these materials is essential.
Choosing the right combination isn’t just about function. It’s about mastering the balance between comfort, strength, and style.
After all, the secret to a perfect finish lies in knowing how each upholstery material works together to create furniture that not only looks good but also stands the test of time.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the basics of upholstery materials, explaining what they are and why they matter.
What are the Most Common Upholstery Materials to Know?
1. 101 Thread
101 Thread is an industrial-grade sewing thread that many use in upholstery, automotive, and heavy-duty fabric applications.
Known for its strength and durability, this thread is thicker than standard garment threads, making it ideal for projects that require long-lasting seams capable of withstanding stress and wear.
It is most commonly manufactured from polyester or nylon, both of which are materials prized for their resistance to abrasion, UV rays, and chemicals.
Because of its thickness and tensile strength, many use 101 Thread for sewing upholstery on sofas and chairs, stitching automotive seating, or assembling items such as tents, tarpaulins, and awnings.
Its reliability ensures that even in demanding environments or with constant use, the seams remain secure and maintain their shape.
Moreover, the appeal of 101 Thread lies not only in its strength but also in its ability to provide a clean, professional finish.
When paired with the right needle and sewing machine settings, it delivers precise stitches that enhance both the durability and appearance of the final product.
2. 600D Polyester Fabric
600D Polyester Fabric is a heavy-duty, woven material widely used in upholstery, outdoor gear, and industrial applications.
This fabric has a PVC or PU coating, which adds to its resistance against water, stains, and abrasions.
Its tightly woven structure makes it durable while still being relatively lightweight, striking a balance between strength and manageability.
For this reason, 600D polyester is popular for making items such as backpacks, luggage, tents, awnings, tarpaulins, and even upholstery for sofas and chairs.
Another advantage of 600D Polyester Fabric is its versatility. It can be produced in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing it to serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.
3. Elastic Webbing
Elastic webbing is a strong, stretchable woven material made by combining elastic fibres such as latex, rubber, or spandex with non-elastic fibres like polyester or cotton.
The result is a flexible yet durable band of fabric that can expand and contract while still maintaining its original shape.
Because of these properties, elastic webbing is common in both upholstery and garment industries which require flexibility and support.
Meanwhile in furniture making, many use elastic webbing is the seat and back support of sofas and chairs.
When stretched across a frame, it provides a firm yet flexible base that works in combination with foam or springs to deliver comfort and resilience.
Beyond upholstery, elastic webbing has a wide range of applications. Examples include clothing waistbands, belts, straps, outdoor gear, medical supports, and luggage.
4. Furniture Spray Adhesive
Furniture spray adhesive is a specially formulated glue designed for bonding upholstery materials such as foam, fabric, leather, and padding to furniture frames or other surfaces.
Packaged in an aerosol spray can, it allows for quick, even application over large areas, making it a convenient choice for both professional upholsterers and DIY projects.
Unlike traditional liquid adhesives, the spray format reduces mess, speeds up the process, and ensures consistent coverage.
This type of adhesive is typically fast-drying and provides a strong, flexible bond that can withstand the pressure and movement furniture endures during daily use.
What’s more, furniture spray adhesive is versatile enough for different materials, including wood, foam, fabric, and certain plastics.
Its ability to bond dissimilar surfaces makes it an essential tool in upholstery work, particularly for attaching foam cushions to frames or layering padding in seat and backrests.
Read more: Fabric Sofa Maintenance Guide: All You Need to Know
5. Pocket Spring
A pocket spring is a type of coil spring used in mattresses and upholstered furniture, designed to provide superior comfort, support, and durability compared to traditional spring systems.
The fabric pockets that encase the springs are usually made from breathable materials, such as cotton or synthetic spunbond fabric.
This helps improve airflow, reduces heat build-up, and adds to the durability of the system.
Depending on the type, pocket springs may be mass-produced for affordability or hand-tied and stitched for luxury products, offering varying levels of flexibility, resilience, and craftsmanship.
6. PU Sponge
Source: Sika Malaysia
PU sponge, also known as polyurethane sponge or polyurethane foam, is a lightweight, flexible, and porous material made from polyurethane.
Because of its ability to compress and bounce back to its original shape, PU sponge is common in everyday products as well as in industrial applications.
In furniture and upholstery, PU sponge is commonly used as a cushioning material in sofas, chairs, and mattresses. Its softness provides comfort, while its resilience ensures long-lasting support.
Depending on density and firmness, you can custom PU sponge for different uses, from plush seating to firm support layers.
7. Velcro
Velcro is a fastening system made up of two fabric strips. They attach when pressed together and separate when pulled apart. One strip is covered with tiny hooks, while the other is lined with small loops.
When the two sides meet, the hooks catch the loops. This creates a secure but temporary bond that you can open and close repeatedly.
Velcro is widely used across industries. In clothing and footwear, it offers quick fastening and adjustability. In furniture and upholstery, it secures cushions, covers, and fabric panels.
It also plays a vital role in medical equipment, luggage, sports gear, and even aerospace applications, where reliability and convenience are essential.
8. Zig Zag Spring
Source: Valiant Industries
A zig zag spring is also known as a serpentine spring. It is a type of sinuous wire spring commonly used in the construction of sofas, chairs, and other upholstered furniture.
Made from heavy-gauge steel wire, it is formed into a continuous “S” or wave-like shape. This is then fastened to the furniture frame in rows.
This design provides a strong yet flexible base that supports seat cushions and helps maintain the structure of the furniture.
Zig zag springs are valued for their durability, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness. They can withstand repeated use without losing their shape, making them a reliable choice for everyday seating.
Because they are evenly spaced and tightly secured, they create consistent support across the seat or backrest, reducing the risk of sagging over time.
Read more: Webbing vs Zig Zag Chair Springs: Which is Better?
Upholstery Materials That Complete Every Project
Of course, upholstery doesn’t stop with just the basics. There are plenty of other upholstery materials that bring a piece of furniture together, and that’s where Kintex comes in.
From buttons and zippers to staplers, car and coil mats, as well as industrial adhesives like Glue 168 and Glue Auto 12, we’ve got it all under one roof.
With such a wide range to choose from, you’ll have everything you need to finish your project the right way.
Whether you’re repairing, creating, or upgrading, our materials are here to help you turn your ideas into reality.
