Intro to Textiles for Upholstery & Window Treatments
Not all fabrics are created equal—especially when it comes to upholstery, slipcovers, and window treatments. In this introductory lecture, we’ll demystify the world of textiles and help you understand what actually makes a fabric suitable for different soft furnishings projects.
Time & Location
May 30, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Unsprung University, 4730 Wistar Rd, Richmond, VA 23228, USA
About the event
Intro to Textiles for Upholstery, Slipcovers & Window Treatments
Registration: $35 per person
Date: Saturday May 30, 10a-12p
Location: Please note, the location for this class will be in our new building - 5 minutes away from our current location. The new address is:
4730 Wistar Road
Richmond, VA 23228
*at the intersection of Broad/Wistar
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Choosing the right fabric is one of the most important decisions in any soft furnishings project. In this lecture-style class, we’ll walk through the fundamentals of upholstery textiles so you can confidently select materials that look great, perform well, and hold up over time.
Through real fabric samples and examples, you’ll learn how different fibers, weaves, and finishes affect durability, feel, and usability across upholstery, slipcovers, and window treatments. We’ll also discuss common industry terms and how to interpret fabric specifications when sourcing materials.
In this class, we’ll cover:
Natural vs. synthetic fibers and their properties
Common upholstery weaves and what they mean
Durability, abrasion ratings, and performance fabrics
Fabric weight, structure, and project suitability
Pattern scale and direction in soft furnishings
Key terminology used by fabric suppliers
This is a lecture and guided walkthrough—no sewing required. Perfect for beginners, DIYers, and anyone planning an upholstery or window treatment project who wants to make smarter fabric choices.