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 17th century it was also woven in England, especially in Lancashire. From the late 17th to 19th centuries, dimity fabric was used as bed covers and window curtains. In the early 19th 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.
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.
