What is velvet fabric and how is it made?
Velvet can be woven from a variety of fibers. At de Le Cuona, we use natural fibers such as cotton, linen and cashmere to create velvets with exceptional depth, softness and character. Velvet is woven on specialist looms that create a dense, cut pile, giving the fabric its distinctive texture, rich appearance and luxurious feel.
Is velvet a woven fabric?
Yes. Velvet is a woven fabric produced on specialist looms that create its distinctive pile. This construction gives velvet its depth, softness and luxurious finish.
What makes velvet fabrics suitable for interiors?
Velvet fabrics offer a unique combination of softness, depth and durability. Their rich texture and subtle sheen bring warmth and elegance to interiors, while their woven construction provides strength and longevity.
Can velvet fabric be used for drapery and upholstery?
Yes. Despite its luxuriously soft feel, natural-fiber velvets offer durability for upholstered furniture. They also drape beautifully, making them well suited to drapery and a wide range of interior applications.
What complements velvet fabric?
Velvet pairs beautifully with natural fabrics such as linen, wool and silk. Combining velvet's soft sheen with more textured or matte materials creates balance and adds depth to interior schemes.
Why does velvet show marks?
Velvet shows marks because its pile moves when touched or brushed. This changes the way light reflects across the surface, creating natural shading and variation that enhance the fabric's character.
Which way should the pile run on velvet drapery and sofas?
For velvet drapery, the pile typically runs upward, creating a richer depth of colour by absorbing more light. For sofas and upholstery, the pile is often directed downward to help minimise pressure marks and allow the fabric to brush smooth more naturally. Direction may vary depending on the desired aesthetic and application.
Is velvet fabric sustainable?
Velvet can be a considered choice when made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen or wool. Its sustainability depends on fiber selection, responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices. Natural-fiber velvets are valued for their durability, longevity and biodegradability.
Is velvet fabric available by the yard, and can I order samples?
Our velvet fabrics are available by the yard, offering flexibility across a wide range of interior projects. Samples can also be ordered to experience the texture, colour and quality before specifying. We ship samples and fabric orders throughout the United States, and customers are welcome to visit our New York showroom to explore the collection in person.
