What percale means
Short answer: Percale is a dense weave in which each thread passes alternately over and under. The result is a matte, cool and smooth fabric that gets softer with time. Here we explain how percale is woven, how it behaves and who it suits.
What percale is
Percale is the name of a particular weave, not of a material. It is used mainly for bedding and can be made from several different fibres. Its mark is a dense, even weave, which gives a very particular feel when you lie down in bed and the fabric meets your skin.
One over, one under
In percale each thread passes alternately over and under the crossing threads, all the way through the fabric. It is the simplest form of weaving, and when it is done densely the fabric gets a firm, even structure. There are no long loose stretches of thread, which partly explains its character.
Matte and cool
The even surface gives a fabric without sheen and with a matte look. It feels firm and cool against the skin, especially the moment you lie down. That coolness is one reason many choose percale, and you notice it at once even if you do not know the name of the weave.
Cool to sleep in
Percale is cool to sleep in because the weave is open and airy between the threads. Heat does not linger as easily as in denser, smoother weaves. Many who sleep warm find that an advantage, especially in summer or in a warm bedroom. See bamboo sheets.
A hard-wearing fabric
The weave locks the threads in place, which makes percale very hard-wearing. The threads have less chance to slip or snag, so the fabric copes with many washes and a lot of use. That is one reason percale is often used in hotels and in homes where bedding is washed often.
Wrinkles more than satin
Percale wrinkles more than a satin weave, because the surface is firmer and less smooth. That is a side effect of the dense, firm weave. On the other hand, creases show less on a matte surface. If you want a smooth sheet, smooth it out while slightly damp, or iron it on low heat.
Softer with every wash
Percale gets softer with every wash. At first the fabric may feel crisp, but the fibres give and become more supple through use and washing. After the first ten washes you feel it clearly. That is one of the good sides of percale: the fabric improves with time. See also bamboo split sheets.
Who percale suits
Percale suits people who get hot at night and want a sheet that feels cool when they lie down. It also suits anyone who would rather not iron, because a few creases in a matte fabric hardly show. See bamboo envelope sheets to see the fabric in practice.
Frequently asked questions
Is percale the same as poplin
The weave is the same, one over and one under. Percale typically means a finer version, with finer yarn and a denser weave than ordinary poplin.
Does percale wrinkle
Yes, more than satin, because the weave is firmer. Smooth the sheet out while slightly damp and it lies better, and creases show only a little on the matte fabric.
Does percale get softer
Yes, it gets softer with every wash, and the difference is clearly felt after the first ten washes. The fabric starts crisp and cool and becomes more supple over time.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
