Velvet is woven with a dense, short pile that stands up from the base fabric, giving it a soft, plush surface and a distinctive sheen that shifts as light hits it from different angles. Traditional velvet was woven from silk, but most upholstery velvet today is made from cotton, viscose, polyester or a blend, which is more practical and easier to care for.
The pile can flatten and shift with pressure, which is part of velvet's character but also means it shows seating patterns more than a flat weave. Modern performance velvets are woven to resist crushing and stains better than traditional versions, making them a practical choice alongside options like chenille. Our sofa fabrics guide covers care tips for pile fabrics.
