How do I select fabrics for my new home?

We are constantly in contact with fabrics: from the clothes we wear to our furniture and beyond, so selecting a fabric for our new furniture, reupholstered furniture or drapery is a complex decision. Besides the obvious characteristics of color, texture and pattern, the selection of fabrics require an evaluation of several factors: content, sturdiness, tactile impression, color fastness, width, transparency, etc. Before selecting a fabric it is important to answer some of these questions:  What will the fabric be used for? What will the space be used for? Will it be a high traffic area? Will it be used regularly or just when guests come over? What type of light does the room have?Do you have any pets?  Do you have any children? What about allergies? Your answers will determine your fabric choice since you won’t want to use silk if you have children eating snacks in the room, or place a leather chair in a sunroom. Once you know all the answers, then you can move on to selecting your fabrics. Or you can ask for help…