How to Find Affordable Upholstery Fabric in the UK

Upholstery projects can transform the look of your furniture, but the cost of high-quality fabric can sometimes be a barrier. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to find affordable uph fabric in the UK without compromising on quality. Whether you're reupholstering a sofa, chair, or headboard, this guide will help you source budget-friendly options while keeping style and durability in mind.

1. Understand Your Fabric Needs

Before you start shopping, it’s important to determine what type of upholstery fabric you need. Different fabrics have varying durability, texture, and maintenance requirements.

• Heavy-Duty Fabrics: If you’re upholstering a frequently used sofa, consider durable options like linen, cotton duck, or polyester blends.

• Decorative Fabrics: For occasional chairs or decorative pieces, lighter fabrics like velvet or silk blends may work.

• Pet & Child-Friendly Fabrics: Look for stain-resistant or tightly woven fabrics if you have pets or kids.

Knowing your requirements will help you narrow down choices and avoid overspending on unnecessary features.

2. Shop Online for Discounts & Sales

Online stores often offer better deals than physical shops due to lower overhead costs. Many UK-based fabric retailers have regular sales, clearance sections, and discount codes.

• Check out clearance sections for discontinued lines or last-season fabrics.

• Sign up for newsletters to get exclusive discounts.

• Compare prices across different websites before making a purchase.

Some online stores also offer free swatches, allowing you to test the fabric before committing to a large order.

3. Visit Local Fabric Shops & Markets

While online shopping is convenient, don’t overlook local fabric shops and markets. Many independent stores offer competitive prices, especially if you buy in bulk.

• Fabric Markets: Places like Goldhawk Road in London or the Birmingham Rag Market have a wide variety of affordable fabrics.

• Independent Retailers: Smaller shops may negotiate prices, especially if you’re buying multiple metres.

• End-of-Roll Discounts: Some stores sell leftover fabric at reduced prices.

Supporting local businesses can also lead to discovering unique fabrics that aren’t available online.

4. Look for Remnants & Offcuts

Remnants are leftover pieces from larger fabric rolls, often sold at a fraction of the original price. These are perfect for small projects like cushions, ottomans, or chair seats.

• Fabric Warehouses: Some suppliers sell remnants in bulk.

• Online Marketplaces: eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace often have sellers offering upholstery offcuts.

• Local Upholsterers: They may have leftover fabric from previous jobs.

Buying remnants is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to source upholstery fabric.

5. Consider Second-Hand & Vintage Fabrics

Vintage and pre-loved fabrics can add character to your furniture while being budget-friendly.

• Charity Shops: Some sell unused fabric donations.

• Antique Markets: Look for vintage textiles with unique patterns.

• Online Resale Platforms: Websites like Preloved or Gumtree often have fabric listings.

Older fabrics may require gentle cleaning, but they can be a great way to achieve a retro or eclectic look.

6. Buy in Bulk or Wholesale

If you have multiple projects, buying fabric in bulk can significantly reduce costs.

• Wholesale Fabric Suppliers: Some retailers offer discounts for larger orders.

• Group Buying: Team up with friends or family to split the cost of a bulk purchase.

• Upholstery Workshops: Some businesses sell excess stock at lower prices.

This approach works well if you need matching fabric for several pieces of furniture.

7. Check Out DIY & Craft Stores

Stores like Hobbycraft, Dunelm, or even IKEA sometimes stock upholstery-grade fabrics at reasonable prices.

• Seasonal Sales: These stores often have discounts during holiday seasons.

• Multi-Purpose Fabrics: Some heavy-duty curtain fabrics can double as upholstery material.

While the selection may be limited, it’s worth checking for hidden gems.

8. Join Fabric Swapping Groups

Online communities and local groups sometimes organise fabric swaps where members exchange materials they no longer need.

• Facebook Groups: Search for UK-based upholstery or sewing groups.

• Craft Forums: Websites like UK Craft Forum have sections for fabric exchanges.

This is a great way to get free or low-cost fabric while decluttering your own stash.

9. Compare Prices & Quality

Not all affordable fabrics are equal—some may wear out quickly, costing you more in the long run.

• Check Fabric Weight: Heavier fabrics (300gsm+) tend to last longer.

• Read Reviews: Look for customer feedback on durability and colour accuracy.

• Test Samples: Order swatches to check texture and thickness before buying in bulk.

A slightly higher initial cost for better quality can save money on replacements later.

Conclusion

Finding affordable upholstery fabric in the UK is possible with a little research and creativity. Whether you shop online, explore local markets, or repurpose second-hand textiles, there are plenty of ways to stay within budget without sacrificing style. For a wide selection of high-quality yet reasonably priced fabrics, you might want to explore Yorkshire Fabric Shop, a trusted online retailer based in the UK, offering a variety of upholstery materials to suit different needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most affordable upholstery fabric?

Polyester blends and cotton duck are usually the most budget-friendly while still being durable.

2. Where can I buy upholstery fabric in bulk?

Wholesale fabric suppliers and some online retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases.

3. Can I use curtain fabric for upholstery?

Yes, if it’s heavy enough (at least 300gsm), some curtain fabrics can work for upholstery.

4. How do I know if a fabric is good quality?

Check the fabric weight (GSM), weave tightness, and read customer reviews before buying.

5. Are remnants a good option for large projects?

Remnants are better for small projects, but you can combine multiple pieces if the pattern allows.

By following these tips, you can find the perfect upholstery fabric without overspending. Happy shopping!

You can read: Top Wholesale Fabric Suppliers in the UK for 2025