Many different types of embossing velvet fabric are used to weave velvet of which we have a wide selection at Unique: Natural fibres like silk, mohair, linen and cotton; synthetic velvets using acrylics, polypropylene and polyester; and finally cellulose velvets made with viscose and modal. Modern day velvets often have blended compositions to enhance their various qualities, eg viscose is blended with cotton to add lustre and strength. The composition of the backing yarns are generally different from the face to provide a strong base for the pile to be 'anchored' to.Mohair and Silk velvets really are the ultimate in luxury and although expensive they are surprisingly durable, particularly Mohair; many Deco chairs still with their original coverings are testament to that.

Mohair velvets have a sumptuous, deep pile and are often very thick, consequentially not suitable for fine tailored pieces with, say, pleating or narrow piping. Mohair also has low flammability, excellent acoustic dampening properties and great natural repellence to dirt; a simple brushing and gentle vacuum will greatly prolong it's life-span.Linen Velvet has a distinctive 'dry' handle with a matte look. It is often referred to as the 'Summer Velvet' as it is breathable and cool to touch. It looks great in a natural or casual country type interior as it doesn't have a showy sheen, however Linen velvet takes up dye extremely well to create deep, sumptuous colours.

The pile of a linen velvet is very susceptible to bruising or crushing which creates a much sort after vintage look.In the last 10 years the popularity of cellulose velvets, particularly Viscose often branded as Rayon for interior design applications has increased greatly. Viscose has a deep lustre and soft handle which will provide glamour and luxury to a room. Viscose velvet is often rolled and pressed flat to create a very high sheen velvet.Synthetic velvets too have been on the market for many decades and while durable they certainly don't have many of the qualities a natural or cellulose velvet has. However with the development of yarns over the years some synthetic velvets do recreate the luxurious look and feel of 'real' velvet.

Andrew Martin's 'Cruise' collection  is a beautiful example of this whilst remaining extremely hardy for commercial applications, Modacrylics are also flame retardant, resistant to mildew and have great dimensional stability.It must be noted that the advent of acrylic velvet has changed many people's expectations of how ALL velvets will 'behave'. It should be pointed out that velvets woven with natural and cellulose fibres are far more rich and luxurious and it is because of their softness and lustre that these velvets WILL crush and mark as a result of normal handling, use and wear. This should be considered as an expression of the fabric’s construction, comfort and elegance. It is a matter of personal taste but, like a natural leather, I believe velvet improves with age as it 'wears-in'. Other factors such as general humidity and heat, style of furniture and it's construction type of padding, piping, linings will also impact upon a velvet's pile.