What is chenille fabric?
Chenille fabric can be made from cotton, silk, rayon or wool. The fabric has a raised pile with a thick and soft texture and feel. The word chenille originates from the French for caterpillar – this relates to the texture of the fabric having the appearance of a caterpillar!
As it has a pile it can look different in different lights and from different angles. It is important when working with it to make sure that the fabric is all going in the same direction. It has texture like velvet and works very well when used with it as a co-ordinating fabric.
How can I use chenille fabric?
Chenille fabric is a very versatile dual purpose fabric which can be used as both a curtain fabric and an upholstery fabric. It is a very sumptuous type of fabric so is ideal for creating a luxurious scheme. It makes a great curtain fabric especially when used for full length curtains. To make them drape beautifully use interlining. Used as an upholstery fabric chenille fabric is hard wearing so would be great for covering a statement chair or sofa.
It makes a great curtain fabric especially when used for full length curtains. To make them drape beautifully use interlining. Used as an upholstery fabric chenille fabric is hard wearing so would be great for covering a statement chair or sofa.
You can also use it with other types of fabrics such as silks and linens where its texture will add interest to your scheme.
Many colours and designs
This luxurious fabric is best suited to living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms but is not really suitable for use in kitchens or bathrooms. To add a touch of drama to a dining room choose a fabric in a dark, rich colour such as aubergine or deep purple. If you want a light scheme in a living room choose a bright green fabric which will bring a fresh feeling into your home.
Chenille fabric comes in a wide variety of colours and designs from contemporary to traditional patterns such as art deco style, jacquard design and stripes. For example, if you live in a period art deco property look for a design which reflects the era your home was built in. With so many colours and designs there is bound to be a chenille fabric suitable for your home.
