Dimity is a thin and translucent cotton fabric woven in checks or stripes
or fancy figures. It is lightweight with a raised warp, which gives a
stripped effect to the fabric. It is a delicate and sheer fabric, having a
crisp texture. The fabric is easy to sew and is easily laundered. It
creases, but is generally treated with crease resistant. Mercerized dimity
has a soft luster. Cotton demity fabric is easily bleached, dyed, or
printed.
The word 'Dimity' has been derived from the Greek word 'Dirnitos', which
means 'double thread'. Demity cotton fabric is made from two or three yarns,
which created ridges in plain areas. It had weft threads twice the thickness
of the warp threads. Dimity was usually made from combed or carded yarns and
the quality always depended upon the yarns used and the pick counts in the
weaving.
Dimity or dimothy is believed to be originally woven in India. By the 17
th
century it was also woven in England, especially in Lancashire. From the
late 17
th to 19
th centuries, dimity fabric was used
as bed covers and window curtains. In the early 19
th century, it
was used as dress materials.
Characteristics of Dimity Fabric
- It is thin and has sheer.
- It is lightweight but strong.
- It has crisp texture.
- It is easy to sew.
- It launders well.
- It creases.
- If it is mercerized, it has a soft luster.
Uses of Dimity Fabric
Dimity is a thin cotton fabric, so it is widely used for breathable
sleepwear of all ages. The lightweight property of dimity is perfect for the
use of children's dresses and infant's wear, aprons, pinafores, cloaks and
morning gowns. It is also used as women's dresses, blouses, underwears,
petticoats, stockings and sportswear.
In home furnishings, dimity cotton fabric is used as bedspreads, curtains,
tablecloths, etc.
