Weaves & fabric constructions
Thread count
Also known as: Threads per inch, TPI, Ends per inch
Number of warp and weft threads per unit length (cm or inch); a measure of fabric fineness and density.
Description
Thread count is the number of warp ends and weft picks over a defined length. Europe uses ends/cm and picks/cm ("60 × 40 = 60/40"), while the US and bedding industry state Threads per Inch (TPI) as the sum of warp and weft.
It is a key metric:
- Higher count → finer, smoother, usually heavier fabric with better hand and wind resistance
- Lower count → lighter, airier fabrics (voile, muslin) or coarse utility cloth (jute sack)
- Bed linen: 200–400 TPI standard, 400–800 TPI premium (Mako satin)
- Poplin shirting: 100/80 to 140/100 per cm
Note: above roughly 400 TPI, 2-ply yarns are often counted twice, inflating the value without proportional gain in fineness. Thread count alone does not describe fibre quality or fabric strength; always evaluate together with yarn size (Nm/Ne/tex) and weave.
Properties
| EU unit | ends/cm x picks/cm |
|---|---|
| US unit | TPI (warp + weft per inch) |
| Bed linen standard | 200-400 TPI |
| Bed linen premium | 400-800 TPI (Mako satin) |
| Note | Above 400 TPI often 2-ply double-counted |
Related product categories
Sources & references
1- Wikipedia: Units of textile measurement Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Units_of_textile_measurement
