Upholstery refers to the materials and construction used to cover and finish padded furniture. It typically consists of an outer covering such as fabric, leather, or synthetic leather installed over cushioning and a supporting frame.
Upholstery affects the appearance, tactile feel, durability and maintenance requirements of furniture. Commercial furniture often requires upholstery materials that can withstand frequent use and cleaning.
The quality of upholstery depends not only on the covering material but also on stitching, seam construction, cushioning and how securely the material is attached to the frame.