Choosing a new upholstered bed is one of the easiest ways to transform your bedroom. From soft-touch velvets to modern linen-style fabrics, the material you choose will influence everything from the feel of your space to the longevity of your bed. But with so many colours and textures available, how do you make the right choice?
This is where fabric samples become invaluable.
View our range of free fabric samples for your bed.
Whether you're deciding between soft neutrals, rich hotel-inspired tones, or a family-friendly woven texture, fabric samples help you see the true colour, texture, and quality of your chosen material before you commit.
In this guide, we break down exactly how to use fabric samples, compare different fabrics, avoid common mistakes, and confidently choose the perfect fabric for your upholstered bed.
Why Fabric Samples Are Essential When Buying an Upholstered Bed
Online photos are helpful, but they can only go so far. Screens vary in brightness, colour accuracy, and temperature, meaning a fabric may appear cooler, warmer, darker, or lighter than it really is. A fabric sample, however, is the real material with no filters, no lighting tricks, and no guesswork.
Here’s why the samples matter so much:
- You can feel the texture, softness, and thickness.
- You can compare shades directly with your bedroom décor.
- You see the fabric in your actual lighting conditions.
- You avoid disappointment or misjudged colours.
- You choose with complete confidence.
Fabric samples are the most accurate way to preview your future bed, and they take the stress out of choosing between your favourite options.
1. View Your Fabric Samples in Natural Daylight
Always begin by looking at your fabric samples in natural daylight.
Natural daylight is the most accurate way to judge a fabric, as it reveals its authentic tones and undertones. Place your samples near a window or even take them outside briefly, avoiding very harsh direct sun which can distort colour.
You will often notice:
- Cool-toned fabrics look brighter and cleaner.
- Warm-toned fabrics feel softer and richer.
- Textures such as velvet or chenille show their depth and variation.
- Neutral shades reveal their true base, whether that is beige, grey, taupe, or cream.
This step alone can immediately eliminate colours that looked great online but do not feel right in your space.
2. Check Your Samples Again Under Evening Lighting
Evening lighting can change how your chosen fabric looks.
Bedrooms rarely sit in perfect daylight all day. In the evenings, warm bulbs or soft ambient lighting serve as your primary light sources. This dramatically alters the fabric's appearance.
In evening lighting:
- Greys may appear slightly warmer or cooler.
- Blues can look deeper.
- Beiges may appear richer and cosier.
- Velvets reflect light differently, showing more shading.
- Dark fabrics may feel more intimate and snug.
Your bed should look good in the morning and in the evening, so always check your samples twice.
3. Compare Your Fabric Samples Against Your Bedroom Décor
Compare your fabric samples with your existing colours and finishes.
Lay your fabric samples out alongside other elements in your bedroom, such as:
- Carpet or flooring.
- Wardrobes, bedside tables or chest of drawers.
- Wall colour and any feature walls.
- Curtains, blinds or shutters.
- Bedding, cushions and throws.
This is the quickest way to determine whether your chosen fabric works harmoniously with the overall design.
This is the stage where most people begin to form a clear favourite.
4. Feel the Texture and Think About Practicality
Texture affects both the look and practicality of your new bed.
The texture of your fabric does not just influence how your bed looks, it affects how it feels, how easy it is to maintain, and how well it suits your lifestyle.
Here’s what to consider:
Velvet and Matte Fabrics
See fabrics: Hugo, Marble
- Ultra-soft and luxurious with a hotel-inspired feel.
- Can show light brushing or natural shading where the pile moves.
- Perfect for modern, glam and premium bedroom styles.
Woven Fabrics
See fabrics: Arran, Trabla, Triumph, Farmhouse
- Durable, versatile and family-friendly.
- Textured look helps hide minor marks and everyday wear.
- Ideal for homes with pets or children.
Linen-Style Fabrics
See fabrics: Linea
- Airy, modern and often inspired by Scandinavian interiors.
- Clean, matte appearance that feels relaxed and minimal.
- Great for light, fresh and contemporary bedrooms.
Performance Fabrics
See fabrics: Boucle, Hugo, Gouache
- Higher durability
- Easy to maintain
- Best for long-term use and busy bedrooms
By touching and feeling the samples, you will quickly know which ones feel right for your style and everyday living.
5. Hold Your Fabric Sample Where the Headboard Will Sit
To get a realistic feel for how your new bed will look, hold your fabric sample vertically against the wall at headboard height. This step is simple but very effective.
A fabric viewed flat on a table looks very different once it is positioned upright where the headboard will be.
This helps you visualise:
- The scale and impact of the colour.
- How bold or subtle it looks from different angles.
- How it appears from across the room and from the doorway.
- How it interacts with the wall colour and height of the room.
6. Move the Sample Around the Room to Test Colour Variation
Bedrooms are not evenly lit. Corners, windows and bedside lamps all influence how your fabric appears.
Move your sample to different areas and take a moment to see how it looks:
- In direct natural light by the window.
- Next to wardrobes or other large furniture.
- Close to the bed area where it will actually sit.
- In the darkest corner of the room.
- Under warm bedside lamps in the evening.
This reveals how the fabric reacts in shadows and highlights. Some fabrics look richer and cosier in low light, while others appear brighter and more neutral.
This step is particularly helpful when you are choosing popular shades like silver, mink, stone, slate, charcoal, champagne or blush.
7. Narrow Down Your Top Two Fabrics and Compare Side by Side
Most customers end up with two favourites, and seeing them side by side is the quickest way to pick a winner.
Place them next to each other and ask yourself:
- Which fabric complements your décor better?
- Which one feels more “you” when you look at it?
- Which one looks better in your lighting, day and night?
- Which texture would you be happiest with long term?
Trust your instinct here. One usually stands out very quickly.
8. Think Long-Term: Will You Still Love This Fabric in Two Years?
While trends come and go, your upholstered bed is designed to last. It is worth considering how your chosen shade and texture will feel over time.
Ask yourself:
- Are you planning to redecorate soon?
- Do you prefer timeless neutrals or bold statement colours?
- Do you want something light and airy or rich and cosy?
- Will pets or children regularly be on or around the bed?
Choosing a fabric that fits your lifestyle is just as important as picking one that matches your current décor.
9. Your Fabric Sample Matches the Fabric on Your Finished Bed
At British Beds Direct, every upholstered bed is handmade in the UK using the exact fabric you receive in your sample. This means:
- What you see is what you will receive on your finished bed.
- There are no hidden colour changes or surprises.
- The texture, thickness and tone will match your sample.
- You can place your order with complete confidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Bed Fabric
Many people rush the decision, but you can avoid the most common pitfalls:
- Choosing based only on online photos: Screens distort colour. Always view samples in real life.
- Looking at samples only in one lighting condition: Check them in daylight and in evening lighting.
- Not comparing samples with existing décor: A fabric that looks great alone may clash with your walls or flooring.
- Ignoring texture and practicality: Some textures suit certain lifestyles better than others.
- Picking a colour too quickly: Spend at least 24–48 hours with your samples before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fabric Samples
How many fabric samples should I order?
Most customers order between three and eight samples so they can explore different colours and textures without feeling overwhelmed.
Do samples match the final bed exactly?
Yes. We use the same fabric roll for samples and for the production of your bed, so the colour and texture match.
Are fabric samples free?
Yes, you may order free fabric samples here.
Which fabric is most durable?
Chenille, woven fabrics and performance fabrics tend to offer the most durability for busy homes.
Which fabric is best for a modern bedroom?
Velvet, plush and linen-style fabrics all work beautifully in modern and contemporary spaces, depending on the look you want to create.
How quickly do samples arrive?
Delivery times can vary, but most customers receive their fabric samples within a few days, depending on availability and location.
Need Help Choosing a Fabric?
If you are stuck between two shades or would like personalised advice, please get in touch. At British Beds Direct, we are always happy to help you choose a colour and texture that complements your décor perfectly. You can call us now on 0330 122 5325.
