Staff Answer
Aug 14, 2026 - 10:07 AM
The different fabric grades are ranked from A to G (depending on the furniture manufacturer) and indicate what price group a fabric selection falls in. A being the starting price point. These grades are used primarily to determine pricing. Grade A fabrics are the least expensive, with the price generally increasing as you move up through the letter grades. Note that the grading system is created by the furniture manufacturer and not the fabric manufacturer. However, there are pricing structures that the fabric houses have which drives the core factors in the grading system upholstery furniture makers use.
One important thing to understand is that a higher fabric grade does not necessarily mean better quality or a longer lifespan. The grade is primarily based on the manufacturer's cost to produce the fabric.
Several factors can affect the fabric grade and price, including:
- How much of the fabric the manufacturer produces
- The complexity of manufacturing the fabric
- The pattern and repeat of the fabric design
- The type and number of fibers used to create a fabric
- The amount of material that is wasted when cutting fabric for cushions
- Other manufacturing and production costs
For example, a fabric with a large or complicated pattern repeat may create more unused material when the cushions are cut. This increases the manufacturer's cost even though the fabric itself may not be more durable than a lower-grade option.
The bottom line is if you find a Grade A or other lower-grade fabric that you like, don't be concerned that you're choosing a lower-quality material. You can still get a quality outdoor cushion fabric without paying for one of the higher fabric grades. The best choice is generally the fabric that offers the color, pattern, and appearance you prefer at a price that works for you.
