Patio fabrics take a bold step forward

It wasn't so long ago that outdoor fabric options were limited to stiff canvas or sticky plastic in predictable solids, stripes or florals.

These days, all-weather fabrics come in the variety of colors, styles and textures previously reserved for indoor decor, including new choices that mimic the look and feel of chenille, taffeta, velvet, boucle, sheers and faux leather.

This expansion of options is "answering a demand for indoor looks in outdoor areas," says Susan Andrews, fabric editor at Furniture Today, a weekly newspaper of the furniture industry. Consumer interest has spurred stiff competition for longtime industry leader Sunbrella from textile designers and well-known fabric houses.

Most of these outdoor fabrics clean easily and resist stains, soil, fading and mildew. They are as appropriate for family-room pillows and playroom furniture as for patio dining chairs. Use one to cover dining or sunroom chair cushions and another (with a liner) for a swell shower curtain. Our favorite idea? Hang the pretty new sheers over an oft-open window or French doors.