Acrylic
Acrylic is a synthetic fibre. It is extremely lightfast and moderately resistant to wear. Acrylic fabrics have a tendency to pill, which often increases when blended with other materials.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural material and a plant fibre. Cotton fabric is durable and highly resistant to wear and tear, so it works very well as furniture upholstery. This fibre can usually be washed and dried at high temperatures without breaking down. That said, it has a high tendency to crease and shrink. Always make sure you follow the care instructions for the fabric in question.
Wool
Wool is excellent for upholstering furniture, it is a natural material that is both resilient to wear and dirt and it is also elastic. Its elasticity makes it less prone to be wrinkled. Initially wool can have some pilling on the surface. This is completely normal and has is in no way a reflection of the quality of the woollen upholstery.
Viscose and Polypropylene
Viscose is a less rugged fibre, in furniture fabrics, it is mainly used in conjunction with other more durable fibres and then mainly to create a beautiful shiny or soft surface. Polypropylene is an artificial fibre with excellent abrasion resistance, colour and lightfastness and is easy to clean and maintain.
Polyester and Nylon
Polyester, as well as nylon fibres, are synthetic fibres that are suitable for use in furniture that experience heavy wear due to their ruggedness. They have good colour fastness and are easy to clean. Some velour like fabrics changes colour when lights hit them from different angles. This is a feature of the fabric and should not be considered a defect but an added bonus.