Silk, a Fabric to Savor

In a nutshell, silk can be best described as elegant, natural and classic. According to Chinese legend, Empress His-Ling Shi was the first person to accidentally discover silk as a weavable fiber. While sipping tea under a mulberry tree, a cocoon fell into her cup and began to unravel. Her deep love of the shimmering threads fueled the beginning stages of silkworm cultivation, thus eventually changing the world with the formation of the Silk Road.

History shows how desirable it was then, and it’s really no different now. But contrary to popular belief, this smooth and shimmery fabric doesn’t have to be limited to fancy spaces. In fact, you may be surprised at how versatile it can be!

So what are some characteristics of silk that make it such a hot commodity?

• Silk is strong and resilient. Silk is known as the strongest natural fiber because of its high tensile strength. It also resists wrinkling and is surprisingly resilient to crushing.
• Silk resists mold, mildew, moths and mites, which can be quite detrimental to furnishings.
• Silk has a refined texture. Although it’s smooth, real silk isn’t slippery like many synthetic fabrics.
• Silk provides lightweight insulation. Even though it’s a lightweight fabric, silk can help regulate your body temperature by keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
• Silk comes in a variety of colors. Silk can die very easily and retain color, making it suitable for any decor.

There are however, some disadvantages that come with this fabric. Silk is prone to sunlight damage, has low abrasion tolerability, can require high-maintenance cleaning, and can cost much more than other fabrics. This doesn’t mean silk should be avoided. It just means there should be thoughtful consideration about how and where it will be used.

You might be wondering the best ways to use silk. Let’s take a look at some ways you can incorporate this lovely fabric into your home:

• On your windows. Silk makes gorgeous window treatments. If you want your windows to be dressed to impress, deck them out with some fine quality silk drapery.
• On your furniture. Silk isn’t cut out for heavy use, but it’s great for dining room chair cushions or accent chairs or benches that receive light use. Don’t have places that get much light use? No worries! Opt for silk throw pillows as an accent instead.
• On your walls. Silk upholstered walls are a new way to bring life to the space without relying on traditional wallpaper. If you happen to prefer wallpaper, you’re in luck! Silk wallpaper can be purchased and works well in traditional and contemporary spaces.

Visit us online or at one of our retail locations. Live in Arizona? Come see us at CUTTING CORNERS to check out the latest designer upholstery fabrics available at amazing prices including faux leather and suede, cotton, and silks.