Editorial · vocabulary · Atelier Mercer
Design vocabulary
Understanding the language of suede is essential for discerning buyers seeking depth, craftsmanship, and nuance in wallcoverings. This guide dissects key terms that define the material’s character, ensuring clarity for those navigating the subtleties of texture, finish, and durability without embellishment.
Nap
- Definition: The raised, velvety surface formed by the cut ends of fibers in suede.
- Product example: A wallcovering with a short nap may reflect light softly, while a longer nap absorbs it, altering the room’s ambiance.
Pile Height
- Definition: The vertical measurement of the suede’s surface fibers, typically expressed in millimeters.
- Product example: A 2.5mm pile height offers a balance between tactile richness and practicality for high-traffic areas.
Dye Lot
- Definition: A batch of suede dyed uniformly to ensure color consistency across rolls.
- Product example: Matching dye lots is critical for seamless installations, as variations can create visible tonal shifts.
Backing
- Definition: A secondary layer bonded to the suede’s reverse to enhance stability and reduce stretching.
- Product example: A woven polyester backing adds tensile strength, making it ideal for curved or irregular wall surfaces.
Shearing
- Definition: The process of trimming the nap to create a flat, even surface.
- Product example: Sheared suede is often used in commercial settings where low maintenance and uniformity are priorities.
Fulling
- Definition: A treatment that compresses the fibers to increase density and reduce porosity.
- Product example: Fully treated suede resists stains better, making it suitable for transitional spaces like entryways.
Burnishing