What is bouclé fabric and how is it different from velvet?

Prepared by Denora.

Bouclé and velvet may have similar colours but look completely different in a room. One surface consists of numerous small loops, while the other has a pile. This difference is not only visible close up: it changes the impression of the entire piece of furniture.

Where does the bouclé texture come from?

Looped yarn creates the surface of bouclé fabric. The loops rise above the fabric base and give the upholstery relief. Some fabrics have small, dense loops, while others have larger ones. The yarn and loop size determine how the surface looks and feels.

The word bouclé is used in international fabric descriptions. It refers to looped yarn and the fabric made from it. The looped structure can be produced from a variety of fibres.

The shadows between the loops give the surface depth. Even plain upholstery looks livelier because light falls differently on raised and recessed areas. The texture is particularly noticeable beside a smooth wall or simple wood grain.

Is bouclé necessarily a wool fabric?

Bouclé may be woven from wool, synthetic fibres or blends. The exact fibre composition is provided in the description of the particular fabric. It helps explain the material's properties and suitable care.

The properties of bouclé depend on the yarn, density, fibre and finish. Abrasion resistance and cleaning methods are given in the technical data for the particular fabric. Upholstery with a similar texture may still have different care requirements.

How is velvet different from bouclé?

Velvet has a dense, short pile. From a distance, its surface looks more uniform and smoother than bouclé. As the direction of the light or pile changes, velvet may appear lighter, darker or more lustrous.

Bouclé and velvet create different effects. Bouclé emphasises relief and small loops, while velvet brings out a smooth field of colour and sheen. The choice often depends on the textures already present in the room.

What does texture change in a room?

A large area of textured fabric draws more attention to the furniture surface. Such upholstery can be a strong accent even when the furniture has a neutral colour. Smooth surfaces beside it make the texture easier to see.

Smoother velvet pairs well with a coarsely woven throw or wood grain. The contrast highlights the qualities of both surfaces. Similar tones combined with a few clearly different surfaces create a calm result.

Upholstery and furniture construction

Upholstery gives a piece of furniture colour and texture. The body, mattress base and mechanisms make up its construction. These product properties and the included components are stated in the description of the specific product.

Differences between furniture fabrics are easiest to see close up: bouclé is distinguished by loops, velvet by dense pile, and plain weave by interlaced yarn. Texture helps you choose the desired appearance. Composition, durability data and care instructions explain how to use the particular upholstery every day.