Percale (cotton) — detail

Percale is a densely plain-woven cotton fabric — every warp thread crosses alternately over and under every weft thread. Typical thread count is 180 – 220 threads per inch, premium fabrics reach 250 – 300. Fine combed cotton yarns are used (typically Nm 60/1 to Nm 80/1); the result is a smooth, matte fabric with a cool hand and a subtly crisp feel.

Percale differs from the smoother sateen weave in that it is symmetric (no dominance of warp or weft on the surface) and therefore looks identical on both sides. It is more hard-wearing than sateen, washable at 60 – 95 °C, and is classically used for premium hotel bed linen, shirts and blouses. The word derives from Persian pargālah and reached Europe via India and France in the 18th century.

• Weave: pure plain weave
• Thread count: 180 – 300 per inch (standard 180 – 220)
• Yarn: combed cotton, fine count
• Look: matte, smooth, cool — no sateen sheen