Corduroy

Corduroy

A pile fabric with parallel ribs. The wale width, nap direction, worn ridge tops, dust in grooves, and shadow between ribs define the material.

Common names

  • corded fabric
  • wale corduroy
  • ribbed velvet

Search phrases

  • ribbed sofa fabric
  • corduroy chair texture
  • parallel stripe fabric
  • retro brown couch fabric

Common uses

  • Sofas
  • Lounge chairs
  • Cushions
  • Ottomans
  • Retro interiors

Choosing points

  • Best for chairs, sofas, and children’s rooms where ribbed casual warmth is useful.
  • Ribs flatten and shine on seats and arms.
  • Dust collects in the grooves.
  • Wide wale corduroy looks casual and bold; fine wale looks quieter.

How it ages

  • Repeated friction can wear the top of the ribs first and make the stripe pattern uneven.

What to avoid

  • Do not use corduroy where grooves will trap crumbs, dust, or liquid and frequent cleaning is required.