Characteristics of Sea Island Cotton
Sea Island cotton is a species of cotton plant that was grown on the Sea Islands off the coast of Georgia from around 1786 to 1920. It was a luxurious fiber and highly valued before the species was wiped out by blight. Today, the name Sea Island cotton is used to describe certain high quality cottons but it is not a regulated term.
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Staple
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Sea Island cotton was an extra long staple (ELS) cotton, meaning it had a staple length over 1 3/8 inches.
Quality
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Due to its long, silky staples, Sea Island cotton produced fine threads that were woven into soft, luxurious fabrics of very high quality.
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Weight
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Sea Island cotton fibers were extra long and fine, so fabric made from the cotton is lightweight and has a silky texture. Fabric labeled "Sea Island" today exhibits these characteristics.
Cost
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Any cotton fabric labeled "Sea Island Cotton" will be relatively more expensive than most types of cotton. This does not necessarily mean that it is of superior quality, as "Sea Island Cotton" is not a regulated term.
Care
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Fabric called Sea Island cotton is machine washable. It is sometimes mercerized, meaning the cotton has been treated to make it stronger, softer and shinier.
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