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The
Thread Count Debate
When it comes to sheets and bedding there seem to be many misconceptions about thread count and quality. Since Are had been in the bedding business for 16 years we would like to share what we have learned on the subject as well as our philosophy.
So what is thread count? It’s a measure of how many threads are woven into one square inch of fabric.
Good quality sheets start at 180-thread count, 200 and higher is considered premium. While thread count is a consideration, even more important is the quality of the cotton, the hand or feel of the fabric, the nature of the finishing and of course the design and value.
The quality of the cotton depends on the lengths of the individual fibers, or staples, the longer the staple, the better the cotton. Longer staples allow the cotton to be spun into a stronger, softer, more lustrous fabric, which is also less likely to pill and with finer yarns, more can be woven into each square inch. The best quality cotton results in a stronger fabric with a soft hand, which is why a 200tc sheet can feel nicer than a 400 tc sheet that uses an inferior grade of cotton. Area uses only high quality cottons and so our sheets always feel soft.
The way in which a fabric is woven also has an effect on its feel. Cotton sateen sheets, like Pearl for example, feel softer than those with a basic percale weave, like Pleat. A sateen weave had more warp or weft yarns on the top surface, resulting in a delicate fabric with a silk-like touch and lustrous finish. A percale, which is more evenly woven, is sturdier, has a crisper feel and matte finish. Which is better? It’s matter of personal taste, some people prefer the crispness of a percale, while others, the softness of sateen.
Also, keep in mind that the various finishing processes can have an affect as to how the fabric feels.
So the bottom line
here at Area is quality, value, original designs, and of course sheets
& bedding that look great and feel really nice.
