Thread count

We are regularly asked about the thread count of our bed linen and it is a fair question. The problem is, it is not the be all and end all. Additionally, it is important not to compare the thread counts of cotton against those of linen. These are two different fabrics derived from two different plants, and to make a direct comparison could end in an expensive mistake!

As we are linen specialists, let’s look at linen first.

Linen fabric originates from the flax plant. It differs fundamentally to cotton in that the strands that make up the yarn are much thicker, and so it is not possible to weave so many into a square inch as you can with cotton. Nothing to do with quality, just a different fibre. Instead, we measure linen by weight, in grams per square metre. You may see this written as gsm. This way it is easier to tell if your new sheets are going to be more suited to use as a sheer net curtain, or as a lovely durable bed linen that will give you many years’ of service. Again, this is not always to do with quality, but horses for courses. Whether you buy based on pattern or colour preference, or by the weight, is a personal choice, but it is worth knowing the weight before you order. For example, you might prefer a lovely light linen for your bed during the summer, but opt for a chunkier fabric in the colder weather.

The measuring of cotton thread count has become a minefield in recent years. This is mainly as some manufacturers and retailers compete to see who can produce the highest thread counts. This may lull the innocent consumer into believing they have acquired the best cotton sheets money can buy when this may be far from the truth.

Cotton yarn is made from many very fine and absorbent strands of fibre. The fibres spun together, form a single length of yarn. Longer fibres mean fewer ends and a smoother yarn.

To achieve an extremely high thread count, manufacturers twist two or more of these strands together prior to weaving and then when calculating the thread count, they multiply the accurate thread count by the number of these strands, creating a higher number.

Whether your preference is for linen or cotton, the quality of the raw materials is paramount, as is the quality of the workmanship in the construction of the finished product.

Please do contact us if you have any questions.