All About Matelasse Fabric

Matelasse fabric gets its name from the French word "matelasse" meaning quilted, cushioned or padded, and the French word "matelasser" meaning to quilt or to pad.

This fabric is designed to imitate the type of hand stitched quilts made in Provence, France. Matelasse fabric is a heavy fabric created by hand or on a dobby or jacquard loom and using heavy stuffer filling yarns to create a puffy quilted look. Although this fabric has wonderful padded look, it actually contains no padding within the material itself.

Matelasse fabric is most commonly made of 100% cotton, but can also be found in chenille or cotton/polyester blends.

The heavier weights of this fabric are used for drapery, upholstery, bedspreads and vests. The lighter weights are used for clothing such as dresses, suits, vests or ensembles. Other places you will find this beautiful fabric being used include handbags, blankets, crib and children's bedding sets, coverlets, slip covers, throw pillow, pillow shams and duvet covers.

Matelassé fabric is typically woven in solid colors, with only the relief of the pattern for its decoration. Designs range from simple, graphic square designs to fancier floral motifs. Matelassé fabric can be very elegant, but is also favored for its comfortable, casual design that seems to improve with every washing. The textile is a favorite for shabby chic and French provincial décor for nearly every room of the house.