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A long-time favourite of upmarket hotels, percale’s weave creates hard-wearing fabrics that are soft to the touch, and work particularly well with cotton.
Here, we take a closer look at what makes percale so special.
What is percale?
Percale refers to a type of weave rather than a fabric. It’s best to think of it as a ‘one thread under, one thread over’ technique, a kind of chessboard pattern. The criss-cross method allows threads to be woven tightly and produces a high-end finish.
The thread count, or the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch of material, usually starts around the 200 mark. The best indicator of quality though is the fabrics used in the weave – a high percentage of cotton produces the most luxurious results.
What products use percale?
There are plenty of opportunities to add a touch of percale to your bedroom. At Belledorm we sell the following percale items:
What are the benefits of cotton percale?
Cotton percale is often considered a luxurious material. A medium weight fabric that’s soft without compromising durability. The tight weave creates a hard-wearing material that keeps its integrity after repeated washing.
The criss-cross threads allow air to easily pass through and is perfect for those who tend to overheat during the night. Unlike other luxury fabrics, cotton percale is surprisingly low maintenance too.
Are there any other popular weave types?
Cotton is commonly weaved using the flannel method, where materials are brushed to make them plush and soft. The technique is also used on wool and synthetic fibres in winter items like heavy blankets and pyjamas. Twill is a diagonal weave used to give more hard-wearing items a visible pattern or texture – you might notice it on headboards and other upholstery. Finally, sateen produces a satin-like finish with a subtle sheen and silky smooth texture. The wrinkle-resistant results are considered one of the most luxurious of all cotton fabrics.
