If you’re looking to add a touch of comfort and luxury to your home, shearling furniture might be just what you need.
My article will cover everything you need to know about shearling furniture. You’ll learn about its soft texture, the different styles available, and the benefits of having shearling in your home.
I remember adding a shearling chair to my living room, and it immediately made the space feel warmer and more inviting. It became my go-to spot for cozy evenings.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What shearling furniture is and where it comes from
- The various styles and pieces you can choose from
- How to care for shearling to keep it looking its best
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how shearling furniture can add warmth, texture, and style to any room.
What Is Shearling?
Shearling is a type of sheepskin or lambskin that has been tanned with the wool still intact.
The term “shearling” specifically refers to the wool-bearing hide of young sheep, which is prized for its softness, warmth, and durability.
Unlike regular sheepskin, shearling has been processed in such a way that the wool remains thick, dense, and plush. This makes it an ideal material for a wide variety of applications, from clothing to upholstery.
One of the best things about shearling is its ability to keep warmth close to your body while still being breathable.
It provides natural insulation and feels soft to the touch. Real shearling offers a rich, natural texture, while faux shearling made from synthetic fibers can mimic the look and feel of the original material.
Characteristics of Shearling
Shearling has a number of characteristics that make it an excellent choice for furniture upholstery. The most obvious is its soft, beautiful texture.
Shearling is incredibly cozy, adding a tactile element to any piece of furniture. If you’re lounging on a shearling-covered chair or resting against a shearling pillow, the material invites you to relax and enjoy its warmth.
Apart from its comfort, shearling is also durable. When treated properly, it can last for years, making it an investment piece in any room.
The wool naturally resists dirt and stains, though it’s important to care for shearling properly to maintain its appearance.
Shearling’s insulating properties also make it perfect for cooler climates, keeping you warm in the winter without overheating in the warmer months.
How Shearling Is Used in Furniture Design?
Shearling is most commonly used for covering furniture like chairs, sofas, and ottomans.
Designers love the material for its ability to provide both visual value and physical comfort, and it’s often used in accent furniture pieces to add personality to a room.
1. Chairs and Sofas
Shearling-covered chairs are popular as accent pieces in living rooms, lounges, or cozy reading corners.
Whether it’s a sleek modern lounge chair or a traditional wingback design, shearling adds an element of warmth and softness to the furniture, making it both inviting and stylish.
Sofas upholstered with shearling provide an inviting atmosphere, offering a plush seating experience that encourages relaxation and comfort.
The material’s cozy, tactile quality can make an otherwise ordinary sofa feel extraordinary.
2. Ottomans and Footstools
Shearling ottomans and footstools are another great way to incorporate this luxurious material into your home.
Not only do they provide a soft, comfortable surface to rest your feet, but they also serve as stylish, functional decorative pieces.
Shearling ottomans can add depth and texture to a living room or bedroom, making them ideal for completing a cozy seating area. Their versatility allows them to complement various design styles, from modern to traditional.
3. Pillows and Throws
If you’re not quite ready to invest in larger pieces of shearling furniture, pillows and throws are a perfect introduction to the material.
These smaller accessories add warmth, texture, and a luxurious feel to any space. Shearling pillows can instantly elevate a couch or bed, while throws provide a cozy addition to a chair or sofa.
These pieces can bring a touch of luxury and comfort to your living space without the commitment of larger furniture.
The Benefits of Shearling Furniture
Shearling furniture offers a unique combination of style, comfort, and durability that makes it a popular choice in interior design. These are some of the key benefits of incorporating shearling furniture into your home:
- Comfort: The soft, plush texture of shearling invites you to sink into your furniture and relax. It’s especially comforting during the colder months, as the material provides natural warmth and insulation.
- Durability: Shearling is a naturally durable material. With proper care, shearling furniture can last for years. Its natural properties also help resist dirt and moisture, making it easier to maintain.
- Visual Appeal: Shearling has an appeal that never goes out of style. Its plush, beautiful look can complement a wide range of interior styles, from contemporary to traditional, rustic to modern.
- Versatility: If you’re looking for a full sofa or just a small throw pillow, shearling works in various types of furniture. It can be used in both large statement pieces and smaller accent pieces, making it versatile.
- Sustainability: If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, faux shearling can offer a cruelty-free alternative without sacrificing the look or feel of real shearling. There are also sustainable practices in sourcing real shearling that ensure the materials are ethically produced.
The Visual Appeal of Shearling Furniture
When it comes to home design, shearling adds a distinct look to your furniture. Its soft texture provides a tactile experience that no other material quite matches.
No matter if it’s the plush feel of a shearling ottoman or the cozy charm of a shearling armchair, these pieces become focal points in any room.
Shearling’s versatility allows it to fit in with various styles of decor.
For rustic and bohemian styles, shearling complements earthy tones and natural materials like wood and stone. In modern spaces, shearling furniture brings a subtle beauty without overpowering the room.
It complements minimalist designs by offering a textural contrast, while in maximalist interiors, it adds an additional layer of depth and richness.
Caring for Shearling Furniture
To maintain the appearance and longevity of shearling furniture, it’s important to follow a few simple care guidelines:
- Regular Cleaning: Vacuum shearling regularly to remove dust and debris. Use a soft brush to gently lift any dirt without damaging the fibers.
- Spot Cleaning: For spills or stains, blot the area gently with a clean cloth and mild soap. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the material. For tougher stains, consider professional cleaning.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Shearling can be damaged by excessive moisture. If your shearling furniture gets wet, let it air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight.
- Protect from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause shearling to fade. Place shearling furniture in areas where it’s not directly exposed to sunlight for extended periods.
Is Shearling Furniture Right for You?
Shearling furniture adds undeniable beauty, comfort, and warmth to any room. If you’re looking for a cozy and beautiful seating option, shearling might be the perfect material for your furniture.
Its tactile nature makes it a great choice for spaces where relaxation and comfort are a priority.
The material’s versatility allows it to easily integrate into various home design styles, making it an investment that will last for years.
Real or faux shearling, this material will help turn your living space into a warm and inviting retreat.
Its plush texture, warmth-retaining qualities, and classic beauty make it a perfect option for those looking to blend style and comfort in their home.
Conclusion
Shearling furniture mixes both beauty and practicality in a way that enhances any room. Its soft texture and insulating qualities make it a perfect material for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
If you’re adding a shearling-covered chair to your living room or simply placing a pillow on your sofa, it brings comfort and style to your space.
Consider shearling for your next furniture purchase and enjoy the cozy, inviting feel it provides. If you’re after a unique accent piece or a statement chair, shearling furniture can easily boost the look and feel of your home.
Its durability and versatility make it a great choice, offering both comfort and long-lasting value for any interior design.