What Is the Meaning of Percale Weave?
The term percale refers to the thread count and weave of fabric used in linens, bed sheets, clothing and industrial fabrics. Percale comes in many colors and the fabrics are considered to have a high-quality weave. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Word Origin
-
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, percale is a fine, closely woven cloth. The word is of Persian origin and dates to 1840.
Content
-
Percale does not refer to a certain kind of fabric. The term does not mean a sheet or linen is made up of cotton, polyester or a blend of fabrics. Rather, it refers to the weave that was used in the manufacturing of the product.
-
Tightness
-
Percale linens and sheets are woven in a tighter manner than most fabrics. Unlike other weaves, percale employs a process where one thread is used horizontally per each thread used vertically in the fabric.
Thread Count
-
If the thread count of an item is higher than 200, the item is considered to have a percale weave. This means that in a 1-inch square of percale fabric, 200 threads are used.
Grade
-
As with most products, percale fabrics vary in grade and quality. The origin of the fabric is a factor in determining its caliber. Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the highest-quality percales. Because it must be shipped from Egypt, it is more expensive than other percales.
-
References
- Photo Credit floral bedding - home interiors image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com
