When looking at decorative choices for your bedspread, there are plenty of choices, such as a quilt, a throw blanket, or even a coverlet. You may come across one known as a matelassé coverlet, but what does it entail? Let Pioneer Linens guide you as we explain what this type of coverlet is, and whether you should consider it for your bedding collection.
The Style of Matelassé
The word “Matelassé” is French for “quilted”, unlike quilts however, a matelassé coverlet doesn’t have any of the stitching or padding needed to be classified as a quilt. Even though it lacks this filling, it maintains its shape through its front and back threads being interwoven.
Traditionally, a matelassé coverlet is made from a jacquard loom, as it is capable of producing intricate weaves that cannot be easily replicated. In many ways, the jacquard loom is what gives this type of coverlet its specific feel and visual aesthetic. The style of matelassé coverlets also avoids using more than one color, as the main appeal for them are their intricate patterns.
While not required, matelassé coverlets are typically made from cotton. As far as bedding materials go, cotton is the most versatile, as it can either be cost effective or extremely high quality. In the case of coverlets, heavier yields of cotton yarn can be used to make the coverlet appear three-dimensional.
(Cane Matelassé Coverlets by Pioneer Linens Signature Collections)
Matelassé Coverlet vs Quilts, Duvets, and Comforters
Matelassé coverlets are often compared to or even confused for other types of bed coverings, so let us go over what sets them apart.
· Quilts: While the two often get confused for one another for both appearing “quilted”, a real quilt has multiple layers of fabric that are stitched together. Quilts also have a layer of filling dedicated to providing warmth.
· Comforters: Comforters are another bed covering that helps with insulating heat. Unlike quilts, however, comforters have plusher fillings, making them heavier as a result.
· Duvets: A duvet set is made of two separate pieces, the duvet cover, and the duvet insert (usually made with down or down-alternative). The insert provides insulation and comfort while the outer layer offers an aesthetic and protects the insert. A matelassé coverlet offers you substance AND decoration all in one item!
What Does a Matelassé Coverlet do for Me?
A matelassé coverlet could be the perfect decorative choice for you. It can insulate heat while still serving as a thin durable bed covering, and its monochromatic design makes it very simple to apply to the rest of your bedspread.
(Vienna Matelassé Coverlets by Peacock Alley)
What to Expect from Pioneer Linens
We hope that you’ll find this guide helpful in organizing your pillows. At Pioneer Linens, our team is dedicated to providing you with the best service possible. That means helping you find the brands and styles you want, for the product you are looking for. If you have any more questions or need consultation about any of our organic cotton bed sheets, call us at 800-207-5463 or email customerservice@pioneerlinens.com.