Q: What is the difference between percale and cotton satin sheets?
A: Percale is woven in a basic criss cross weave using a one-over, one-under structure and has a thread-count higher than 200. This weave produces firm and smooth fabric with no gloss. Percale feels like a classic cotton button down shirt, cool and crisp.
Percale Weave - 1 Over 1 Under
Cotton Satin on the other hand, uses a different structure in the weaving process, usually a four-over, one-under. This places more threads on the surface, which gives the fabric a sheen and silky feel.
Cotton Satin Weave - 3 Over 1 Under
What's important to understand here is that weave, like thread-count are personal preferences! The highest thread-count or more expensive weave does not necessarily indicate the “best” sheet. Some people prefer the crispness of a 220 thread-count percale sheet; others might choose a finer, higher thread-count cotton satin.
Want to learn more? Check out our Thread Count 101 to get a run-down on what makes a quality sheet.
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