How to Choose Sofa Rexine: Thickness, GSM, Backing and Finish
1. Thickness
Upholstery rexine listed on Indian B2B marketplaces ranges from well under 1 mm to over 1.5 mm. Thicker material generally feels more substantial and resists wear better, but it is also stiffer and costlier. Thickness alone does not decide quality: a thin sheet with a strong top coat can outlast a thick, soft one.
2. GSM (weight)
GSM is grams per square metre. It tells you how much material you are getting for your money and is a good way to compare two quotes for "the same" rexine. See our guide What does GSM mean in PVC leather for how to measure it yourself.
3. Backing fabric
- Knitted: stretches in more than one direction. Best for curved arms, cushions and tight corners.
- Brushed / velvet-back: softer feel and better grip on foam.
- Woven: stable and strong, good for flat panels.
- Non-woven: economical, suited to lighter-duty use.
4. Top finish
Embossed grain, matt or semi-gloss is a matter of style. What matters for daily use is the protective top coat (lacquer), which improves stain resistance, rub resistance and how easy the surface is to wipe clean.
5. Durability and testing
Ask the supplier which tests the material has passed: abrasion resistance, colour fastness to rubbing, tear strength and, for air-conditioned or cold areas, cold-crack resistance. For hotels, cinemas and public spaces, also ask about flame retardancy. Request test reports with the standard named; do not rely on adjectives like "heavy duty".
Suggested starting points by use
| Use | Backing | Thickness | Must-have |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home sofa | Knitted / brushed | Medium | Soft feel, easy-clean top coat |
| Office chair | Knitted | Medium to heavy | Abrasion resistance |
| Restaurant booth | Knitted / woven | Heavy | Stain resistance, abrasion |
| Hospital furniture | Knitted / woven | Medium to heavy | Wipe-clean, chemical-resistant surface |
| Cinema & auditorium | Knitted | Heavy | Abrasion, flame retardancy |
These are starting points to discuss with your supplier, not fixed specifications. Most rexine is supplied about 54 inches wide, so calculate your metre requirement on that width.
Quick FAQ
Which rexine is best for sofas?
A PVC leather with a knitted or brushed backing, a soft hand feel and a stain-resistant top coat. For heavy commercial use, choose a thicker, abrasion-tested grade.
How many metres of rexine does a sofa need?
It depends on the sofa design and cushion count. Ask your upholsterer for a cutting plan on a 54 inch width before ordering.