The fabric is soft like a short chenille, and the overall effect of the couch is really nice. It has a pretty firm, but not too tough cushion, it’s a great size, and the fabric looks pretty resilient. However, after two hours, two of us who generally don’t have trouble with furniture assembly still haven’t successfully put it together. It is really difficult to get the arms onto the ends of the couch. Also, be aware, each section comes in its own box or set of boxes. You will have enough cardboard to start a small recycling plant after.