Which Upholstery Fabric Suppliers UK Provide Custom Orders?

When it comes to furnishing homes, offices, or commercial spaces, upholstery fabric plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and durability. Many businesses and individuals in the UK seek custom fabric options to match their unique design needs. But finding reliable upholstery fabric suppliers that offer bespoke orders can be challenging.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best UK-based upholstery fabric suppliers that provide custom orders, along with key factors to consider when choosing the right supplier.

1. Why Choose Custom Upholstery Fabric?

Custom upholstery fabrics allow you to:

• Match specific colour schemes and interior designs.

• Select unique textures and patterns not available in standard collections.

• Ensure durability by choosing the right fabric type (e.g., cotton, linen, velvet, or synthetic blends).

• Personalise furniture for commercial or residential projects.

Since ready-made fabrics may not always meet specific requirements, opting for custom orders ensures a perfect fit for your project.

2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Supplier

Before selecting a supplier, keep these factors in mind:

Quality of Fabric

The material should be durable, fade-resistant, and suitable for upholstery use.

Customisation Options

Check if the supplier offers custom colours, patterns, and textures.

Lead Time

Some suppliers take weeks or months to deliver custom fabrics—confirm timelines beforehand.

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

If you need small quantities, ensure the supplier accommodates low MOQs.

Sustainability

Eco-friendly fabrics are in demand, so check if the supplier offers sustainable options.

Customer Reviews

Look for feedback from previous clients to gauge reliability.

3. Top Upholstery Fabric Suppliers in the UK for Custom Orders

Here are some reputable suppliers that provide custom upholstery fabrics in the UK:

a. Whaleys (Bradford) Ltd

Known for high-quality textiles, Whaleys offers custom dyeing and printing services. They work with natural fibres like cotton, linen, and wool, making them ideal for bespoke upholstery projects.

b. Panaz

Specialising in contract upholstery fabrics, Panaz provides custom designs for hospitality and healthcare sectors. They offer flame-retardant and durable options.

c. Camira Fabrics

A sustainable choice, Camira produces eco-friendly upholstery fabrics with customisation options for commercial interiors.

d. Warwick Fabrics

With a vast collection of designer fabrics, Warwick allows custom colour matching and bespoke designs for luxury furniture.

e. Kvadrat

A premium supplier, Kvadrat collaborates with designers to create unique, high-end upholstery fabrics with custom options.

f. Create Fabrics

Among the leading wholesale fabric suppliers in the UK, Create Fabrics offers a wide range of upholstery materials with customisation options. They cater to both small and large orders, making them a flexible choice for designers and businesses.

4. Custom Printing and Dyeing Services

Some suppliers go beyond standard fabrics by offering:

• Digital Printing: Allows intricate patterns and photo-realistic designs.

• Screen Printing: Ideal for bold, repetitive patterns.

• Custom Dyeing: Exact colour matching for brand-specific requirements.

Suppliers like Whaleys and Panaz excel in these services, providing endless design possibilities.

5. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Custom Fabrics

With increasing demand for green materials, many suppliers now offer:

• Recycled polyester fabrics.

• Organic cotton and linen.

• Low-impact dyeing processes.

Camira and Kvadrat are known for their sustainable fabric options, making them ideal for eco-conscious buyers.

6. Upholstery Fabric Types Available for Custom Orders

a. Natural Fabrics

• Cotton (breathable but less durable).

• Linen (elegant but prone to wrinkling).

• Wool (durable and flame-resistant).

b. Synthetic Fabrics

• Polyester (stain-resistant and durable).

• Acrylic (mimics wool but more affordable).

• Microfiber (soft and easy to clean).

c. Blended Fabrics

Combining natural and synthetic fibres enhances durability and comfort.

7. How to Place a Custom Order

1. Consult the Supplier: Discuss your requirements, including fabric type, colour, and pattern.

2. Request Samples: Test swatches before bulk ordering.

3. Confirm MOQ and Lead Time: Ensure the supplier meets your deadlines.

4. Place the Order: Finalise the design and proceed with production.

8. Pricing for Custom Upholstery Fabrics

Custom fabrics are typically more expensive than ready-made options due to:

• Unique dyeing/printing processes.

• Lower production volumes.

• Higher-quality materials.

Prices vary depending on fabric type, design complexity, and order quantity. Always compare quotes from multiple suppliers.

9. Tips for Working with Upholstery Fabric Suppliers

• Communicate Clearly: Provide detailed design references.

• Check Return Policies: In case of mismatches or defects.

• Order Extra Fabric: For future repairs or adjustments.

• Build Long-Term Relationships: Reliable suppliers can offer better deals over time.

Conclusion

Finding the right upholstery fabric supplier for custom orders in the UK requires research and careful consideration of factors like quality, lead time, and sustainability. Reputable suppliers like Whaleys, Panaz, Camira, and Warwick Fabrics offer excellent customisation options.

For those seeking a reliable wholesale fabric supplier with flexible custom solutions, Create Fabrics stands out as a trusted choice, catering to diverse upholstery needs.

FAQs

1. Can I order small quantities of custom upholstery fabric?

Yes, some suppliers like Create Fabrics accommodate low MOQs, while others may require bulk orders.

2. How long does it take to receive custom upholstery fabric?

Lead times vary—typically 2-8 weeks, depending on the supplier and design complexity.

3. Are custom fabrics more expensive than ready-made ones?

Yes, due to bespoke production processes, custom fabrics often cost more.

4. Can I get eco-friendly custom upholstery fabrics?

Absolutely! Suppliers like Camira specialise in sustainable fabric options.

5. Do suppliers provide fabric samples before bulk orders?

Most reputable suppliers offer swatches to ensure colour and texture accuracy.

Whether you're an interior designer, furniture maker, or DIY enthusiast, choosing the right supplier ensures your upholstery project turns out perfectly. If you're looking for quality and flexibility, Create Fabrics is a great option to explore.