Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I buy on the website?

We are primarily a Trade Supplier and do not supply the general public, so all orders are received by email or telephone and expidited immediately

Can I return the item if I change my mind?

No. Goods are not sold on approval. In the interest of hygiene, goods may not be returned for any other reason than manufacturing defect. The responsibility lies with the customer to ensure the item matches the exact specification (size, colour, material etc) they require.

What is Yarn Count?

This is the method used to describe the thickness of the yarn and is traditionally given in "cotton count" e.g. 16's, 30's, 40's. In this system the lower the count, the thicker the yarn, so a 16's yarn will be thicker than a 40's yarn. The higher counts e.g. 40's, 60's will be used in bed linen and the lower counts in table linen.

What is Thread Count?

Thread count refers to the number of threads, both vertical and horizontal, in a one-inch square of fabric. Thread count is affected by a number of factors, including ply and thickness of the threads used. The ply of the fabric refers to how many threads are wrapped together into a single thread. Single-ply fabrics use threads on their own, while two-ply fabrics twist two pieces together into a stronger thread, as well as doubling the thread count of the fabric.

What is Percale?

The term describes the weave of the fabric, not its content, so percale could be a blend of 50% cotton and 50% polyester, 100% cotton, or a blend of other fabrics in any ratio. A percale weave has a thread count of about 180 or higher, and is noticeably tighter than the standard type of weave used for bed-sheets. It has medium weight, is firm and smooth with no gloss, and warps and washes very well. It is made from both carded and combed yarns. Percale fabrics are made in both solid colours and printed patterns. The finish of the fabric is independent of its weave, so it can be either printed or unprinted

What is Satin?

Satin fabric has a glossy and a dull side. Some weft or weave yarns are brought to the surface in a process called floating, which allows some of the yarn to reflect light, thus producing the shine and gloss.

What is Sateen?

Sateen is a cotton fabric with a lustre resembling that of satin. Sateen starts with long-fibres, combed or carded cotton. The cotton is then mercerized to bring out a sheen.

What is Jacquard?

Jacquard is a fabric with an intricately woven design, which is woven on a special loom for weaving figured fabrics.

What is Carded Cotton?

Carded cotton is cotton which has been prepared for spinning into thread or yarn. Carding is an important step in the processing of many textiles, ensuring that debris is removed while aligning the fibres to make them easier to spin. Without carding, cotton thread would be coarse and extremely fragile.

What is Mercerised?

Mercerized cotton is cotton which has been treated with sodium hydroxide to bring out certain properties. When treated properly, mercerized cotton is stronger, smoother, and shinier than regular cotton. In addition, it takes dye more readily so that manufacturers can create rich colour saturation in their cottons.

What is Combed Cotton?

Combed cotton is an extremely soft version of cotton made by specially treating the cotton fibres before they are spun into yarn. As a general rule, combed cotton is slightly more expensive than conventional cotton.

What is Egyptian Cotton?

Egyptian cotton comes from where its name suggests - Egypt. The humid conditions and rich soil in Egypt along the Nile River Valley create the perfect conditions to grow long cotton fibres (also known as staples), and Egyptian cotton falls under the classification of an ELS (extra-long staple) cotton. The staples of Egyptian cotton can range from 1 1/2 inches to 2 1/4 inches. Their long length (about twice the size of other cotton fibres) allows them to be spun into very fine yarns. These yarns are soft and lustrous yet are very strong and durable.

What is Pilling or Bobbling on Fabrics?

Fabric pilling is the formation of small, fuzzy balls on the surface of a fabric. Short or loose fibres on the surface of a fabric tend to tangle together, leading to fabric pilling. Thus giving fabrics a 'worn' appearance. To avoid fabric pilling, choose smooth, sturdy, closely woven fabrics. Poor quality cotton is more likely to experience fabric pilling than high thread count cotton.

What are the Attributes of 100% Cotton Bed Linen?

100% cotton bed linen is naturally absorbent and will absorb moisture from the body whilst sleeping. The yarn is soft, strong and durable.

What are the Attributes of Polyester/Cotton Bed Linen?

This polyester/cotton blend combines the natural effects of cotton for softness and moisture absorption with the fast drying and non-iron properties of polyester.

Why should I Wash Towelling Products Before Using?

Towels should be washed before using them to remove the lubricant which is applied to the yarn used to form the terry loops, which assists the insertion of the terry loop weft during manufacture. The lubricant makes the yarn slippery and so the loops are easy to pull. Washing towels well before use removes the lubricant and the weave of the towel shrinks in, which tightens the fabric and holds the loops in place.

What is GSM?

'Grams per Square Metre' is the standard measurement for weight of fabrics. The higher the GSM the better the quality. Towels weighing less than 400gsm will feel very thin. Luxury towels have a weight of 500gsm, 600gsm or even higher.

What are the Attributes of 100% Cotton Table Linen?

100% cotton table linen is much more absorbent, which is specifically desirable for napkins. Cotton table linen looks crisp and drapes well on the table and napkins.

What are the Attributes of 100% Polyester?

100% polyester table linen is stronger and lasts longer than cotton. The shrinkage is minimal. Drying times are much faster than cotton and stain release properties are increased, which is a big plus where laundry costs are concerned. 100% Spun Polyester was developed to give a softer, absorbent more cotton like feel.

What is 100% Filament Polyester Table Linen?(Rose Damask Design)

Filament polyester yarn consists of filament fibres (very long continuous fibres) either twisted together or only grouped together. The fabric is hard wearing and long lasting, with low shrinkage, superb colour retention and excellent stain resistance.

What is 100% Spun Polyester Table Linen? (Plain Design or Ivyleaf Design)

Spun Polyester is made by spinning 100% polyester fibres into yarns. These yarns are then taken and made into thread which consists of two or three ply constructions. The fabric is hard wearing and long lasting, with low shrinkage, superb colour retention and excellent stain resistance. Every property you expect from polyester, but it feels like cotton.