The Rise of Velvet: Why It’s a Top Choice for Upholstery - From Leon Custom Upholstery
Velvet is having a major moment in interior design. Once reserved for formal living rooms and luxury parlors, this rich, tactile fabric has made its way into modern homes — from statement sofas to accent chairs and even headboards.
At Leon Custom Upholstery, we’ve seen a surge in clients choosing velvet for its depth, softness, and ability to instantly elevate any space. In this post, we’ll explore what makes velvet special, the different types available, and the best ways to incorporate it into your home decor.
Understanding Velvet
Velvet isn’t just a fabric — it’s a weave. The signature plush surface comes from short, dense fibers cut evenly across the base cloth, creating that unmistakable soft sheen.
While it was once made exclusively from silk, today’s velvet is produced from a range of fibers including cotton, polyester, and performance blends — making it far more versatile and durable for modern upholstery.
Types of Velvet We Commonly Use:
✅ Cotton Velvet
Soft, breathable, and natural — offers a classic matte finish.
Best For: Sofas, accent chairs, and traditional interiors.
✅ Performance Velvet (Polyester or Microfiber Blend)
Engineered for durability and easy cleaning while maintaining a luxurious feel.
Best For: Family-friendly spaces, pet owners, and high-traffic seating.
✅ Crushed Velvet
Features a textured, light-catching surface for added drama and depth.
Best For: Statement pieces, boutique interiors, or glamorous accents.
✅ Mohair Velvet
Made from the hair of the Angora goat — incredibly durable with a rich, natural luster.
Best For: Luxury projects and heirloom-quality furniture.
Why Velvet Is So Popular Again
Velvet has re-emerged as a design favorite because it bridges comfort and style beautifully.
Here’s why homeowners and designers are embracing it:
Texture & Depth: Velvet absorbs and reflects light in unique ways, creating visual warmth.
Versatility: Works in modern, vintage, or eclectic spaces.
Durability: New performance velvets stand up to daily life without losing their beauty.
Color Saturation: Velvet holds dye better than most fabrics, giving colors extra richness and dimension.
At Leon Custom Upholstery, we pair these qualities with expert craftsmanship to ensure each velvet piece looks elegant and endures years of use.
Best Ways to Incorporate Velvet
✅ Statement Sofas
A velvet sofa instantly becomes the centerpiece of a room. Deep tones like navy, emerald, or rust add sophistication, while neutrals like champagne or taupe lend understated luxury.
✅ Accent Chairs & Ottomans
Introduce velvet in smaller doses through accent seating or footstools. It’s a great way to test the texture and elevate the space without overpowering it.
✅ Mixing Textures
Pair velvet with linen, leather, or wood for a modern, layered look. The contrast highlights the fabric’s tactile richness.
✅ Headboards & Benches
In bedrooms, velvet headboards and end-of-bed benches add a sense of boutique comfort and softness.
Velvet Care & Maintenance Tips
Velvet may look delicate, but with the right fabric choice and care, it’s surprisingly easy to maintain:
Vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust.
Blot spills immediately — don’t rub.
Most stains can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water (this should be tested in an inconspicuous area first), if this fails dry cleaning may be an option.
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading over time.
Leon Custom Upholstery offers a wide selection of velvet options.
Why Choose Leon Custom Upholstery for Velvet Projects
From vintage chair restorations to custom-built sofas, we tailor each velvet upholstery project to your unique vision. Our team ensures perfect alignment, crisp edges, and expert foam pairing for comfort and longevity.
Ready to experience the luxury of velvet?
👉 Contact Leon Custom Upholstery for a consultation — and discover why this timeless fabric is the ultimate modern choice.