*Thread count.  Thread count is defined as the number of single threads/sq.in. in a cotton fabric.  It is certainly a common indicator of quality:  the higher the number, the better the cloth.  To a degree that is true, but in the production of a sheet there is much more involved than simply weaving a high thread count.  (You wouldn’t buy a car only on the basis of horsepower.)  Most high thread count sheets are achieved by using 2-ply yarns, aka: twisted yarns.  A twisted yarn counts as 2 single threads in a thread count calculation.

For example, a sheet with 100 single ply threads in both directions (warp and weft) would have a thread count of 200, whereas a sheet with 100 twisted yarns in one direction and single ply threads in the other would have a thread count of 300, and a sheet with 100 twisted yarns in both directions would have a thread count of 400.

There is a value in using twisted yarns, beyond a mere thread count number.  A twisted yarn is stronger than a single yarn and thus yields a stronger fabric.  Think of a twisted yarn as a rope, and we think you'll see what we mean. In addition almost all damask designs use twisted yarns because they add “depth” to the design.

Our advice is to use thread count as one indication of quality.  The way in which a fabric is sewn, the feel of the cloth, the quality of the yarns, the quality of the cotton, the quality of the finishing/dyeing are equally important in judging the value of a cloth.

*Fitted sheets. Our fitted sheets are designed to fit mattresses with a depth of 13”, and are sewn with elastic on all four sides.  Deeper fitted sheets are available in many of our designs, and can be special ordered.  If you need a quote for a deeper fitted sheet, please send us an e-mail.

*Swatches.  We strongly advise everyone to request a swatch.  The real test of the quality of a cloth is in the feel of the cloth.  It is impossible to convey the quality, and very difficult to convey the color, of a sheet on a computer screen.  Please send us an e-mail and we will be happy to send you a swatch of any damask or solid color sheet. The only designs we do not have swatches for are the embroidered collection.

*Duvet covers.  Our duvet cover sizes are:

In addition many of our designs are sewn with a 3” flange on three sides, so the effective size of the duvet is greater than the “pocket” size.  The designs with a flanged duvet cover are:  Athena, Portofino, Leonardo, Magia, Dorina, Romantica, Bergamo, Sateen600, Como, Claire & 100% Linen.

*Flat sheets.  Our flat sheets are all sewn extra long (approximately 115”) so there is a generous turn back.  Furthermore, most of our flat sheets are sewn in a typical Italian style with a “return.”   A “return” means the sewing detail goes approximately 20” down the sides of the flat sheet as well as across the top.  With a return, a flat sheet has a more finished look on the bed.

*Laundering.  There are a few key elements to follow when laundering a fine cotton sheet. 

Detergent.  Choose a mild detergent without bleach (obviously white fabrics can be bleached) and without optical brighteners.  Follow the directions for adding the detergent (you can bleach out the color of most fabrics if you put the detergent directly on a fabric), and do not use fabric softener.  We would recommend washing in warm water.

Drying.  This is key: DO NOT OVERDRY.  Use a “timed dry” cycle on medium heat, as opposed to a “permanent press” cycle, which is too hot for 100% cotton fabrics.  Remove from the dryer while still damp and iron.  Remember the heritage of these fine linens is Italy.  Traditionally in Italy, homes did not have dryers, so all the laundry was line dried.

As with any 100% cotton fabric, the more the fabric is laundered, the more the fibers “relax” and less ironing is needed.