Chenille takes its name from the French word for caterpillar, describing the fuzzy, tufted yarn used to weave it. Short fibres are twisted into the yarn at right angles, so the finished fabric has a soft, slightly ribbed texture with some of the same light catching quality as velvet, but usually at a lower cost.
It is a popular choice for family sofas because it tends to be hardwearing and comfortable, though the pile can shed some fibres when new. Chenille sits alongside velvet and bouclé as one of the more textured upholstery options, and our sofa fabrics guide explains how to choose between them.
