Cotton matelasse fabric is heavy and durable. It is a good wear and drapes
well. It is very attractive and quite plain styles work excellent. The
fabric is washable but has to be laundered with care. It comes in different
colors, novelty effects and some even with metallic yarns.
It is woven tightly on jacquard or dobby loom in double cloth weave, also
known as compound fabric. The pattern gives a quilted puff effect. It has a
pattern such as botanical like leaves, geometric like diamond or squares or
that of abstract shapes.
The word 'Matelasse' has been arrived from a French word 'Matelasser',
which means to quilt or to pad. In 1880s, very fine silk matelasse were
produced for dresses, mantles, and opera cloaks. Wool mantles were used for
mantles and jackets.
Characteristics of Matelasse Fabric
- It is heavy.
- It is durable.
- It is sumptuous.
- It is warm.
Uses of Matelasse Fabric
Matelasse is widely used as upholstery and drapery. Lightweight matelasse
is used for dresses and apparel.
