![Corduroy 21 — Norsemaison [nm-render]](http://www.norsemaison.com/cdn/shop/files/corduroy-21_869dc909-03a6-4add-b688-6e57e865e2ea.jpg?v=1787305390&width=104)
![Fluweel 18 — Norsemaison [nm-render]](http://www.norsemaison.com/cdn/shop/files/fluweel-18_ff9a6df0-b11b-43b9-ad0a-e6f1f7bc97b4.jpg?v=1788355930&width=104)
How we test our fabrics
Independently tested by SGS
A strong fabric is not a promise, but a measurement result
We have our fabrics tested by SGS, the world's largest independent testing laboratory. SGS measures how resistant a fabric is to wear, how strong it is, and how quickly snags develop. We have no influence over the results. Below, you can see what was measured for each fabric, along with the report number. You can have each report number verified by SGS.
SGS results
Cycles are the number of rubbing movements on the Martindale machine. Newton (N) is the force required to propagate an initiated tear. Snagging is rated from 1 (very severe) to 5 (none).
Abrasion resistance: more than 50,000 Martindale cycles.
Tear strength: more than 63 N in both directions.
Snagging: 3–4 and 4 on a scale of 5.
SGS reports SL62416363488001TX (2024, commissioned by our weaving mill) and SL92619324175201TX (2026).
Durability: 50,000 Martindale cycles according to the specifications provided by our weaving mill.
Durability: more than 50,000 Martindale cycles.
Tear strength: more than 63 N in both directions.
SGS report SL62506316025701TX (2025, commissioned by our weaving mill).
Wear resistance: 50,000 Martindale cycles.
Pilling: 4 and 4–5 on a scale of 5.
SGS report SL92619324174301TX (2026).
Durability: 50,000 Martindale cycles according to the specifications provided by our weaving mill.
Abrasion resistance: 12,000 Martindale cycles. Designed for normal use.
Tear strength: more than 64 N in the warp and 42 N in the weft.
Snagging: 4–5 and 4–5, the highest rating in our collection.
SGS report SL92609295226001TX (2026).
What the tests measure
Three tests, three questions: how long will the fabric last, how strong is it, and how does it hold up against claws and zippers?
Standard EN ISO 12947-2, pressure 12 kPa. A wool disc rubs the fabric in circles until threads break. The number of cycles is the score. Around 12,000 cycles, a fabric is suitable for normal use; from 20,000 cycles for daily family use; and from 50,000 cycles for very intensive use.
EN ISO 13937-1 standard. A small cut is made in the fabric, after which a pendulum measures how much force is needed to extend the tear. The result is given in newtons, separately for the warp (lengthwise) and weft (crosswise) directions.
ASTM D3939 standard, ICI Mace tester. A ball with sharp pins rolls over the fabric 600 times. This simulates nails, zippers, and jewelry. The rating ranges from 1 (very severe) to 5 (no snags). Useful to know if you have pets.
Washability and colorfastness are not part of these tests. Our covers are washable at 30 degrees; this is a property of the polyester and based on our experience, not on an SGS report.
This is how it works
From steel to report
A new fabric is only added to our collection once we know what it can withstand. We send a fabric sample of every new fabric to SGS. The laboratory tests the fabric and sends us a report with the measurement results. That report determines how we offer the fabric.
For fabrics that have been in our collection for longer, we use the SGS reports commissioned by our weaving mill.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the tests
What does 50,000 Martindale mean?
That the fabric withstood 50,000 rubs without any threads breaking. In the furniture industry, 50,000 is considered suitable for very intensive use, such as a sofa that an entire family sits on every day.
Why does Imperia have a different Martindale rating?
Each fabric has its own balance between durability, appearance, and feel. Corduroy and Royal Bouclé have been tested to more than 50,000 rub cycles and are made for intensive use. Imperia has a rating of 12,000 rub cycles and is intended for normal use, with the major advantage of having the best snagging resistance score in our collection (4–5). This way, you can choose the fabric that suits how your sofa is used.
Why is there no SGS abrasion-resistance report for Classic, Velvet, and Chenille?
These fabrics have been part of our collection for some time. The abrasion resistance of 50,000 rubs is the specification provided by our weaving mill. We have not yet had this independently tested by SGS. Once we do, we will add the report number to this page.
Can I check the reports myself?
Yes. Every report number on this page is an official SGS number. SGS can confirm the authenticity of a report. Contact us if you would like to view a report.
Have the covers also been tested for washing?
Not at SGS. Washability and colorfastness are not included in these tests. Our covers are made of polyester and can be washed at 30 degrees. The product page lists the washing instructions for each fabric.
Want to feel for yourself what the numbers mean?