Velvet, chenille and bouclé are the three textures people reach for when they want a sofa or chair that's soft and inviting. They feel very different, wear differently and suit different homes. Here's how they compare.
Velvet
Velvet has a short, dense cut pile: threads that stand up from the base cloth and catch the light. That gives it its rich colour, soft hand and slight sheen.
Look: luxurious and saturated; deep colours glow. Works from classic to modern.
Feel: smooth and soft, cool to the touch at first.
Durability: modern upholstery velvets made from polyester are very durable, and many exceed 100,000 double rubs.
Watch for: pile marks and "bruising" where the pile is pressed flat, and it shows fur and lint. Light marks usually brush out.
Best for: statement sofas, accent chairs, headboards, ottomans.
Chenille is woven from a special yarn with short fibres sticking out all around it, like a pipe cleaner. The result is a soft, fuzzy, textured fabric that feels warm and relaxed.
Look: casual and cozy, with visible texture that adds depth to plain colours.
Feel: plush and warm.
Durability: good in tightly woven, upholstery-weight chenilles; check the double rubs.
Watch for: looser chenilles can pull or crush where people sit most.
Best for: family sofas, sectionals, lounge chairs, reading chairs.
Bouclé is woven from looped yarn (the name comes from the French for "curled"), giving a nubby, cloud-like surface. It's the signature fabric of modern and mid-century furniture.
Look: sculptural and modern; best in creams, oatmeal and soft neutrals.
Feel: textured and soft, slightly springy.
Durability: varies with the weave; tightly made upholstery bouclés wear well.
Watch for: the loops can be pulled by claws, jewellery and Velcro. Not the first choice with cats.
Best for: accent chairs, curved sofas, benches, ottomans and headboards.
Both can be very durable when made for upholstery. Compare the double-rub rating on each fabric's spec sheet rather than the fabric type.
Is bouclé hard to keep clean?
Not especially. Its texture hides light wear and dust, and many bouclés can be spot cleaned with water. Check the cleaning code and avoid it where claws or jewellery will catch the loops.
Does velvet show marks?
Velvet's pile can show pressure marks and changes in shade as it's brushed in different directions. This is part of its character, and most marks brush or steam out.
Shop the fabrics in this guide
Charlotte upholstery fabric by the yard, priced in CAD, with free samples.