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FAQs – Shopping/Fabric Information

   

Can I buy online from Linwood?

While browsing and ordering free samples is possible through the website, fabric purchases must be made through one of our carefully vetted stockists, which includes specialist shops, interior designers, curtain makers and upholsterers. We don't sell directly through our website because we think that after a face-to-face discussion, our stockists are the best people to assist you in making an informed choice.


Via our brand-new Shop section, Wallpaper, Cushions, and Notebooks may all be purchased straight from our website.

 

As a trade customer, an order can be placed by phone 01425 461176, or email sales@linwoodfabric.com.

 

Where can I buy Linwood’s fabrics?
 
To find your nearest Linwood Partner Account, simply type your postcode into our stockist finder. If you can’t find a Partner Account near you, please email us or call us on 01425 461176 and we will be happy to help.
 

How can I open a trade account with Linwood?
Please complete our Trade Enquiry form and a member of our sales team will be in touch to discuss your enquiry.
 

Do you have international stockists?
 
A list of our international stockists can be found here.
 

Do you have a showroom?
Yes, we have two. There is a showroom at our head office in Ringwood, Hampshire, which is open by appointment only. If you would like to book, please contact us and we can check availability for you. We have also recently opened a London showroom at Studio Two, Worlds End Studios, 132-134 Lots Road, London SW10 0RJ. Opening times: Monday to Friday, 10am-1pm; 1.45pm-5.30pm.  

  
 

How do Linwood’s stain resistant fabrics work?
It is important to understand that the stain resistant finish we apply are not able to make cottons and other absorbent natural fibres stain proof. They do however give much needed protection to otherwise absorbent fabrics.

 

Fabrics treated with our stain resistant treatment also benefit from exceptionally soft handle and improved abrasion resistance.

 

The “SR” coats the yarn – whether natural or polyester and helps to resist water, oil and stains.

 

Our stain resistant finish will not be removed by washing or dry cleaning – however over time and repeated cleaning the effect will be reduced.

 

If you are looking to choose a fabric that is very stain-resistant and practical, we suggest you look at our Omega velvet, Tango plain velvet or Cosmos plain velvets. The stain resistant finish makes accidental spills ball up on the surface, and the polyester pile cannot absorb stains as the fibre is hydrophobic.

 

Remember – you don’t get polyester tea towels for a reason.

 

What is the difference between the C and FR code? 
If a fabric is available with 2 finishes, C & FR, the ‘C’ code version should be selected for curtains, blinds and loose covers. The FR code is for designed for fixed upholstery use and complies with UK FR requirements. 

 

How do pattern repeats work? 
Whether a pattern is printed or woven onto a fabric or wallpaper, you need to be able to match the pattern at the edge. Most patterns are straight matches and the pattern repeats horizontally across the roll and is positioned at the same point on each selvedge or side.

 

Half drop patterns are slightly more complicated and repeat on a diagonal line across the fabric and to find the side match you drop the fabric or wallpaper down by the length shown. For instance, a half drop pattern with a vertical repeat of 60cm would have a half drop of 30cm and to match two drops you move one down by 30cm. Remember to allow extra fabric or wallpaper when working with half drop designs and check twice, cut once!

 

Some vintage designs can have repeats that are neither straight nor half drop when redrawn to 137cm wide. The pattern repeat can be ‘offset’ by a number of centimetres. Our Belleville ‘Mandai’ design for instance, has a repeat that is offset by 7cm. To match 2 drops of fabric, move one drop down by 7cm.

 

For more information, please contact us or consult a professional interior designer or curtain maker.

 

What is a rub test?
The ‘Martindale rub test’ simulates natural wear of an upholstered seat cover, in which the textile sample is rubbed against a standard abrasive surface with a specified force.

 

The test equipment works by totalling the number of rubs that leads to the material being worn to a specified degree - the higher the value, the more resistant the material is to abrasion. 

 

How can I check to see if you have any stock of a discontinued fabric?
Please contact our sales team who will be happy to check stock of discontinued lines or suggest alternatives for you.