Absolutely, you can and should request fabric swatches for our urban outdoor furniture collection. In fact, we encourage it. Seeing a digital image on a screen is helpful, but nothing compares to touching the actual material, holding it up in your own lighting, and placing it next to your existing decor. Below, we walk you through everything you need to know about accessing, evaluating, and choosing from our curated fabric options.
First, the process is simple. On each product page for the urban outdoor collection, you will find a “Request Swatches” button beneath the fabric selector. Click it, and you can choose up to five fabric samples per request. We ship them in a protective folder within 2-3 business days, free of charge within the continental U.S. If you are international, we provide a digital swatch book and can mail physical samples with a small shipping fee.
What kinds of fabrics will you see? Our collection features three main categories: solution-dyed acrylic, recycled polyester blends, and high-performance mesh. Solution-dyed acrylic is our most popular choice for outdoor sofas and lounge chairs because the color runs through the entire fiber, preventing fading even in intense sun. Recycled polyester blends offer a softer, matte feel, ideal for cushion-heavy pieces like daybeds. High-performance mesh is breathable and quick-drying, perfect for damp climates or poolside areas.
When your swatches arrive, do not judge them solely on color. Pay attention to texture. Run your fingers across the surface. Is it tightly woven or more open? Tight weaves resist dirt and moisture better. Check the backing material—does it feel coated? Many of our fabrics have a water-resistant backing that still allows airflow, preventing mold in humid environments. Also, fold a corner and press down. Does it crease easily? Premium outdoor fabrics should bounce back with minimal wrinkling.
Lighting is critical. Hold the swatch next to your outdoor space at different times of day. Morning light brings out cool undertones, while afternoon sun reveals warmer hues. If your patio is under a pergola or awning, check the swatch in that shaded area as well, since shadows can change gray and blue tones dramatically. We also recommend holding the swatch against your flooring, wall paint, and any throw pillows you already own.
Do not forget the “scratch test.” Some fabrics feel soft but are not truly pet-friendly. Rub a coin or a fingernail against the surface. Our solution-dyed acrylic resists abrasion well, while certain recycled blends might pill over time. If you have dogs or frequent guests with sharp belt buckles, prioritize the performance ratings listed on each swatch card. Every swatch includes a data tag with abrasion resistance (double rubs), colorfastness, and cleaning codes.
Finally, think about maintenance. Outdoor furniture swatches let you test stain resistance. Dab a drop of olive oil or red wine onto a corner of the swatch. Wait ten minutes, then blot with a mild soap solution. See how the fabric responds. Many of our fabrics require only water and mild detergent, but some darker colors may show water spots if not dried quickly. The swatch test will tell you immediately.
If you feel overwhelmed, our design team offers a free virtual consultation. You can share a photo of your space, and a specialist will send you a curated set of up to 8 swatches that match your aesthetic and climate needs. They will also advise on which fabric weight works best for your furniture frames—lighter fabrics for sling chairs, heavier ones for plush cushions.
Once you have narrowed it down to two or three favorites, we can send you larger swatches, roughly 8 by 10 inches, so you can drape them over a cushion or seat to visualize the full effect. This larger sample is especially useful for checking how patterns align if your chosen fabric has a geometric design.
In summary, yes—swatches are not only available, they are an essential step in the decision process. Our urban outdoor collection is built to last a decade or more, and the fabric choice is the single most impactful decision you will make. Take your time, order the swatches, live with them for a few days, and let your eyes and hands guide you. If you need a quick start, request our “Top 5 Urban Neutrals” bundle, which includes grays, deep greens, and warm taupe options that pair effortlessly with concrete, wood, and stone surroundings.