What Is Candlewick Chenille?

Candlewick chenille is a fabric traditionally made from cotton. Candlewick chenille can also be made of rayon, wool or silk. It is a heavy, luxurious fabric often used for making bathrobes, drapes, bedspreads and sometimes beach wear.

Chenille Yarn

Chenille means hairy caterpillar in French.

In French, chenille means hairy caterpillar. Chenille describes a soft-tufted yarn or embroidery cotton or a fabric made of such yarn. The yarn used in candlewick chenille can be a different color or the same color as the base fabric.

History

Early American settlers are credited with the first candlewick embroidery. Candlewick embroidery is done using soft-spun candlewick thread on muslin. The finished embroidery is washed in hot water to shrink it and the embroidery threads are then cut and brushed until fluffy.

Chenille

Candlewick chenille is produced by using soft yarn woven onto a plain, flat fabric. The yarn is then cut and brushed until fluffy, as in candlewick embroidery, to create the soft, fluffy effect that candlewick chenille is known for.

References

• Textile Glossary: What Is Candlewick Fabric--Definition and Explanation
• West Virginia University Extension: Traditions Continue . . .What Is Candlewicking?