Crypton Performance Fabrics: Innovating American Textiles for a Sustainable Future - Crypton

Crypton Performance Fabrics: Innovating American Textiles for a Sustainable Future

April 19, 2024

Crypton Performance Fabrics: Innovating American Textiles for a Sustainable Future

Designing a luxurious and sustainable home 

The performance fabric industry has totally changed since we started Crypton over thirty years ago. Having ownership over our in-house R&D has made it possible to stay ahead of the curve and produce cutting-edge, lifelong performance technology that works with every fiber – including fabrics with the most luxurious hands and designer patterns and textures. We firmly believe that luxury and durability can coexist to create beautiful, sustainable interiors when technology and design converge the way they do in our textiles. 

What does performance have to do with sustainable design? The longer a fabric lasts, the fewer times a client must reupholster or replace it, and this results in a huge reduction in manufacturing and waste over a client’s lifetime.  Furthermore, it enables clients to more confidently invest in heirloom-quality furniture pieces. This is because people know that, when upholstered in Crypton performance fabric, they can count on their designer pieces performing and lasting for life.  

As sustainability becomes positioned more and more at the fore of the specification process, questions of performance and sustainable frequently surface during conversations with designers and architects. That’s why we decided to focus a recent conversation with Interior Design Magazine around our domestic manufacturing and sustainability initiatives. Keep reading to preview the topics that will be featured in a forthcoming Q&A article by Interior Design Magazine! 

Sustainable Interiors Q&A with Crypton Performance Fabrics 

Q: Crypton goes beyond performance textiles, offering what the brand calls fabric intelligence. What does this term mean exactly, and how is Crypton’s approach pushing the industry forward?

A: Crypton’s fabric intelligence is a testament to our commitment to innovation, focusing not only on performance but also on promoting human health, sustainability, and responsible manufacturing practices. By incorporating features like stain resistance, moisture repellency, and now, wellness-promoting properties through fabrics like Celliant®, Crypton redefines what “performance” means in the textile industry. Our approach pushes the envelope by integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices into their fabric production, setting a new standard for the industry. 

Q: How does specifying domestic products, like those from Crypton’s mill, benefit designers and clients?

A: Specifying domestically produced textiles, such as those from our mill in western North Carolina, offers several advantages for designers and clients. Firstly, it significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation, as domestically sourced textiles undergo a shorter journey from production to distribution. This not only aligns with sustainable sourcing goals but also ensures faster delivery times and lower environmental impact. Additionally, domestic production fosters collaboration between mills and design teams, allowing for customized solutions tailored to specific applications like hospitality or senior living. Moreover, consumers increasingly value the assurance of supporting domestic industries, making the origin of textiles a crucial factor in their purchasing decisions. 

Photos taken in the design studio at Crypton Mills in North Carolina

Q: What attracts craftspersons to work with Crypton, particularly in your domestic mill?

A: Craftspersons are drawn to Crypton for our dedication to revitalizing domestic textile production, especially in regions like North Carolina with rich textile heritage. The opportunity to sustain traditional skills within their communities holds immense significance, fostering a sense of connection to both their craft and community. Our investment in the domestic mill not only creates job opportunities but also preserves local traditions and expertise. 

Q: What makes American-made textiles distinct, and how do Crypton’s fabrics reflect these elements?

A: American-made sustainable textiles reflect a tradition of craftsmanship, innovation, and regional pride. Crypton’s fabrics embody these elements by sourcing materials domestically and utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques within our North Carolina mill. The proximity to production allows for meticulous quality control and creative innovation, resulting in fabrics that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal seamlessly. By supporting American-made textiles, consumers uphold a tradition of supporting local artisans and communities while enjoying superior quality and design excellence.

Q: How does Crypton promote craftsmanship, particularly in terms of design innovation and longevity?

A: Weavers at Crypton push the boundaries of jacquard weaving, creating fabrics that are visually captivating and structurally resilient. The inherent stain-resistant and moisture-repellent properties of Crypton fabrics offer design freedom while ensuring longevity and practicality. By incorporating innovative features into their fabrics, Crypton enables weavers to elevate their craft to new heights while maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality and innovation.

Q: What excites Crypton textile designers most?

A: As a designer, working with Crypton textiles offers immense opportunities for innovation and creativity. The assurance of enduring performance attributes allows them to design with confidence, knowing that Crypton fabrics will maintain their functionality and beauty over time. Additionally, access to a domestic mill affords our designers the freedom to explore a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns without compromising on performance. The combination of aesthetics and functionality in Crypton textiles allows them to create designs that resonate with clients and consumers alike. 

Q: Why is specifying U.S.-made fabrics, like those from Crypton, important for sustainability and economic resilience?

A: Specifying U.S.-made fabrics like the ones from our mill is essential for promoting sustainability and economic resilience. By supporting domestic sustainable textile production, designers contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions associated with transportation and support regional economic vitality. Upholding domestic textile traditions preserves artisanal skills and fosters a sense of community pride. Additionally, proximity to production facilitates quality control and creative collaboration, resulting in superior quality fabrics that meet the needs of designers and consumers alike. Advocating for U.S.-made fabrics aligns with sustainability goals and ensures a brighter future for both the textile industry and the communities it serves.

Some of our important points of differentiation include our innovative approach to fabric intelligence, commitment to domestic production, and focus on sustainability. By prioritizing performance, health, and environmental responsibility, Crypton fabrics not only meet the needs of designers and clients but also pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient design future.  

Interested in learning more about how Crypton Fabric is made, how to clean it, and where to find it? Check out these links and others below. 

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Why Crypton?

Crypton Performance Fabrics are thoughtfully designed to be spill-proof and odor resistant, protecting your investment in upholstered dining chairs and bar stools for restaurants. Crypton is the number one choice of commercial designers for interior performance upholstery fabric.


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15 years ago, we created the first EPA-approved disinfectable fabric. We help leading healthcare and hospitality designers create beautiful interior spaces that combine comfort, design and durability for top brands, including Starbucks, Four Seasons, and Mayo Clinic.


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Our broad network of leading contract brand partners is easily searchable and includes top fabric and contract furniture brands that offer a variety of our fabrics for any project you may be working on.

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The indoor performance brand trusted across all industries, from hospitals to hospitality.

The first ever EPA-approved disinfectable fabric has brought unparalleled style and performance to commercial design projects for more than 15 years. Learn more about how Crypton Performance Fabric is changing commercial interiors for good.