tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12493808452682462522024-03-04T21:29:33.952-08:00A Touch of LaceA Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-87996191729400566482014-03-14T08:20:00.002-07:002014-03-14T08:20:51.323-07:00Dorsey Cashmere Throw by Sferra<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top">Winter is still here and boy is it still cold outside! We offer many great throw blankets to snuggle up with. One that we think is pretty great is the Dorsey cashmere throw by Sferra.<br /><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Q:</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> How is the </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Dorsey</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> cashmere throw made?</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">A:</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">SFERRA’s Dorsey</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> throw is made of the world's finest cashmere from Inner Mongolia, a northern autonomous region of China. Its cooler climate and natural grassland vegetation make Inner Mongolia an ideal location to produce the best quality cashmere – longer, stronger and finer fibers. Raw cashmere fibers are washed, de-haired and carefully hand-picked by experienced workers. Then these fibers are eco-dyed, woolen spun and woven using state-of-the-art technology. The result is a superior cashmere throw – incredibly soft, warm and resilient. </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Dorsey</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> can be treasured as a family heirloom and passed down from generation to generation. Below I have included a few photos of the process.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Cashmere farm in Inner Mongolia:</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_niuwifgg" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div align="center">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 74.25pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="301" id="_x0000_i1032" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140311/a8/c0/fe/99/4fa5302e45999d1292e17760_401x301.jpg" width="401" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_bhofoztv" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Yarn spinning machines:</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_rozzomsz" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 75pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="301" id="_x0000_i1033" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140311/fc/a9/2b/a9/73f6b20899fc6fc24e60d47f_400x301.jpg" width="400" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_psmyuuiv" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Weaving machine:</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_vfwkhgaf" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 75.75pt 7.5pt 75pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="300" id="_x0000_i1034" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140311/89/82/6e/c6/6b9b80a20486dc2201c5d1db_399x300.jpg" width="399" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_mobnizmw" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">SFERRA’s Dorsey</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> throw:</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_comdhmlj" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 112.5pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="299" id="_x0000_i1035" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140311/2e/94/34/06/c609c5929e7cfbebacd1f36d_300x299.jpg" width="300" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-60887759840142235262014-03-05T08:38:00.002-08:002014-03-05T08:38:33.365-08:00Caring for fine linens starts with a good laundry detergent<div class="altsubheading" style="background-color: white; color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 3px;">
We recently posted about how to properly care for your linens to keep them looking bright and color fast. One of the best products on the market to do just that is The Laundress. At A Touch of Lace we carry a variety of The Laundress products to help with your laundering needs. </div>
<div class="altsubheading" style="background-color: white; color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="altsubheading" style="background-color: white; color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="altsubheading" style="background-color: white; color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 3px;">
The Laundress</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
The Laundress is an eco-chic line of specialty detergent and fabric care created to take the chore out of doing laundry. Frustrated with dingy white t-shirts, ruined items from the dry cleaners and chemically treated cashmere, The Laundress researched and developed their own solutions to simplify and master the fine art of laundry. The Laundress values the importance of properly cared for clothing and home linens so they formulated the most effective ingredients for each specific fabric need with their favorite scents to create sophisticated, efficacious, green and easy to use collection.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWFbTilpY2tUh6eCtpzyQa-gRQd8XdNHulZDIdPVb0lWMK_bYumRvkaCAqFwzi8TrJCEf9wjqyQDEb4mr4ixMYTL7oRc872GFI7ErSzpowPv_ubd9O59iJvMyUNm3V7JsWt3srrn_xcpt/s1600/PRODUCT_Favorite-DETERGENT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWFbTilpY2tUh6eCtpzyQa-gRQd8XdNHulZDIdPVb0lWMK_bYumRvkaCAqFwzi8TrJCEf9wjqyQDEb4mr4ixMYTL7oRc872GFI7ErSzpowPv_ubd9O59iJvMyUNm3V7JsWt3srrn_xcpt/s1600/PRODUCT_Favorite-DETERGENT.jpg" height="320" width="310" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">
<br /></div>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-35976723226138597822014-03-03T08:49:00.001-08:002014-03-03T08:50:19.019-08:00How should you keep your linens from fading?<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt;">
<span class="e2ma-style"><b><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Q:</span></b></span><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> How do you keep luxury linens from fading?</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt;">
<span class="e2ma-style"><b><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">A: </span></b></span><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">It is important to understand just what causes linens to fade. Most likely, fading is due to a combination of factors, including cleaning techniques, exposure to weather/sunlight, and normal wear and tear. Some of these factors are out of your control. However, in order to minimize fading, it is essential to take special care to control those factors you can.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt;">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">It is a best practice to read and understand the fabric care instructions label and adopt its laundering recommendations. Before washing, sort your laundry into like colors. Always use a mild detergent, with no Chlorine. Never use a fabric softener. Think cool! Washing in hot water and drying on high temperatures will not only damage the fabric, but it may also cause fading. If you line-dry your linens, avoid direct sunlight, as the ultraviolet rays of the sun can cause colors to fade.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt;">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Here’s something to keep in mind: if you have matching linens (a set of sheets and pillowcases, a tablecloth and matching napkins, etc.) each piece should be cared for equally regardless of whether or not it is soiled, or even used. Wash them all together. The idea is to give each piece the same frequency of trips through the laundering process to help maintain color consistency. This practice will not necessarily help avoid fading, but it will make any fading that does occur much less noticeable.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_gntdtucy" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-14833155319288376902014-02-26T11:01:00.000-08:002014-02-26T11:01:32.608-08:00How does a quilt differ from a matelassé?<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Q</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">: How does a quilt differ from a matelassé?</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">A</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">: A quilt is traditionally a bed cover in which a layer of batting, or padding, is placed between two layers of fabric and then stitched into a specific pattern or design to hold the layers in place. Batting is a soft, bulky assembly of fibers that provides loft and a layer of insulation. A “wholecloth quilt” uses a single piece of fabric for the top layer, as compared to a “piecework quilt” that joins smaller sections of fabric together to create the top layer.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">On the other hand, matelassé is a fabric that appears to be quilted, but actually has no batting. Specialty jacquard looms are used to give a matelassé fabric a unique appearance of intricate designs, raised patterns, indentations, and the padded look, often associated with quilts.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">SFERRA</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> has introduced two new “wholecloth quilt” options for Spring 2014, </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Sesto</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> and </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Denina</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Sesto</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> is an elegant quilt that lends a simple, serene layer of beauty and warmth to the bed using our lustrous </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Fiona</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> sateen, delicately spun and woven in Italy of Egyptian cotton. It’s then enfolded with a layer of cozy fiberfill, and overstitched with a ‘subway tile’ pattern. </span></span><strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Sesto</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> is available in quilts, continental and boudoir shams in Grey, Ivory, Leaf, or White.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpXgpPhShGqHOOnVLEhev74Kw7fO6FOcMrZDsnUMnf3GNRWcYzsxWlLyEkw2bamLAzGuJIi8C0FY7VrfCjUVO1lOV3N3C2zVvvFglU-U3VMadngVgHqCOAbj9_UMK0dxAfNS02ZKKt4_f/s1600/ae6701da75cb63dcf7d6e792_300x298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpXgpPhShGqHOOnVLEhev74Kw7fO6FOcMrZDsnUMnf3GNRWcYzsxWlLyEkw2bamLAzGuJIi8C0FY7VrfCjUVO1lOV3N3C2zVvvFglU-U3VMadngVgHqCOAbj9_UMK0dxAfNS02ZKKt4_f/s1600/ae6701da75cb63dcf7d6e792_300x298.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Denina</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> is a quilt that starts with an Italian-woven floral jacquard fabric, which is then quilted to create a simple, light, oh-so-elegant coverlet. This luxurious master bedroom quilt is made from pure Egyptian cotton, double-stitched with diamond quilting, and finished with a simple bound hem and four rounded corners. </span></span><strong style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Denina</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> is available in quilts in Honey or Ice.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="e2ma-style" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0T7sBmrX6pLhbMX8swujoncdqrWxFNB5mdzpDJ2W8HC4ehN-1BBdgUvuagtp-x9ptRUn1QcYpaYdGOU_e6ONdZpiaGCFdQppiCzKElwq1WR2mLGIVBWuiH66amI6YzmkUYBUL2bfJvyMo/s1600/2c1ed27eb4928ed636638d9a_300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0T7sBmrX6pLhbMX8swujoncdqrWxFNB5mdzpDJ2W8HC4ehN-1BBdgUvuagtp-x9ptRUn1QcYpaYdGOU_e6ONdZpiaGCFdQppiCzKElwq1WR2mLGIVBWuiH66amI6YzmkUYBUL2bfJvyMo/s1600/2c1ed27eb4928ed636638d9a_300x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="e2ma-style" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-17076979007127727202014-02-20T12:40:00.001-08:002014-02-20T12:50:22.029-08:00What is a lace inset?Q: What is a lace inset and how is it made?<br />
<br />
<br />
A: A lace inset is a piece of lace set into fabric as a decoration or trim. The edges of the lace are sewn onto the base fabric, sometimes with a decorative stitch. The base fabric behind the lace inset can then be trimmed away to create a lace inset window. It is an intricate process that takes the skilled hands of an expert seamstress to create.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Below is an image of SFERRA's Millesimo<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgWOM4rg4vSXrzN5q3WdZYqm45Xi7vG2g1BrDxVfF0_XQoKv_at52WekImC7dL4uWa2c2c6qgQubDj1bn4q6a62etwH1-V1UHN7uWMG80rOShfWmkHzsxdW8ml67zuN1F8TuIZEfsujs4/s1600/1610_2_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgWOM4rg4vSXrzN5q3WdZYqm45Xi7vG2g1BrDxVfF0_XQoKv_at52WekImC7dL4uWa2c2c6qgQubDj1bn4q6a62etwH1-V1UHN7uWMG80rOShfWmkHzsxdW8ml67zuN1F8TuIZEfsujs4/s1600/1610_2_.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Below is an image of SFERRA's Francesca</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FMolnj8SPQ_Ua07JQ7uSm9oBVSXoUA4GUyouvgN_a9pZHQhJNr29GYMRgo-s9FEia37DwR1922I8Fn1OoDrW9EDkF0JrmWdyyTcUpJLVozheZTBLKR_Jzq3VXRU83ThcqZPBPtRr_CqT/s1600/7600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FMolnj8SPQ_Ua07JQ7uSm9oBVSXoUA4GUyouvgN_a9pZHQhJNr29GYMRgo-s9FEia37DwR1922I8Fn1OoDrW9EDkF0JrmWdyyTcUpJLVozheZTBLKR_Jzq3VXRU83ThcqZPBPtRr_CqT/s1600/7600.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-42268569863400362222014-02-18T07:18:00.000-08:002014-02-18T07:18:56.724-08:00Tips For Choosing Fine Linens<h3 id="choosingfinelinens" style="background-color: white; border: none; clear: both; color: #812c2a; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin: 24px 0px 10px; padding: 0px 0px 2px; text-transform: uppercase;">
TIPS FOR CHOOSING FINE LINENS</h3>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 10px 0px 10px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Prefer crisp, cool, smooth bedding?</strong> Choose plain weave bed linens such as batiste, voile, percale, or cambric. Plain weave fabrics are prone to wrinkling. To minimize ironing, dry on low temperature or a wrinkle release setting, removed promptly from the dryer, smooth flat, and fold.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Prefer soft, silky smooth, highly lustrous bedding?</strong> Choose sateen bed linens. Sateen wrinkles less than percale but due to the nature of the weave it is not as durable. To minimize ironing, dry on low temperature or a wrinkle release setting, removed promptly from the dryer, smooth flat, and fold.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Always cold?</strong> Choose cotton flannel or jersey bed linens for a warm and cozy bed. These two fabrics are the least prone to wrinkle. Wash and dry on warm temperature settings, remove promptly from dryer, smooth flat, and fold.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Prefer linens with natural temperature-regulating properties?</strong> Choose linen, silk, or rayon from bamboo bed linens.<ul style="line-height: 1.5; margin: 10px 0px 10px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Linen</strong> is highly absorbent and draws heat away from the body, keeping you cooler in the warmer months. It is also hypo allergenic, lint free, and naturally insect repellant. Crisp, smooth, and comfortable, linen becomes softer after every wash. One of the most durable fabrics, it can be washed in hot water, but to minimize wrinkles dry on low temperature or a wrinkle release setting, removed promptly from the dryer, smooth flat, and fold. Iron damp.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Silk</strong> is naturally porous and absorbent, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It is also resistant to mildew and moths. Silk can be machine washed in cool water, on a gentle wash cycle, with a delicate laundry detergent. To keep your linens from snagging on the inside of the washing machine, wash your silk bed linens inside of a mesh bag or cotton pillowcases. Tumble dry low or line dry.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Rayon</strong> made from Bamboo, is 1½ times more absorbent than cotton. Due to its natural ability to breathe, it wicks away heat and moisture in the warmer months and keeps you warm in winter. It has natural deodorant and anti-bacterial properties, which do not wash out over time. As rayon is prone to shrinking, follow all care instructions carefully.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Hate to iron?</strong> Select bed linens with a wrinkle resistant finish. The finish helps minimize wrinkles and does not wash out over time.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Have an extra thick mattress?</strong> Select a fitted sheet with extra deep pockets and an oversized comforter to allow for extra coverage on the sides of the bed.</li>
<li style="margin: 3px 0px;"><strong>Fitted sheets keep popping off the bed?</strong> Select a fitted sheet with elastic all around as this will allow the sheet to remain secure on your bed, even if you toss and turn before falling to sleep.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-44399564990134660132014-02-17T07:36:00.001-08:002014-02-17T07:36:51.271-08:00What is the difference between a fingertip towel & a hand towel?<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Q:</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> What is the difference between a fingertip towel and a hand towel?</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">A:</span></strong><span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"> A fingertip towel is a small-sized towel providing an easy convenience to dry hands and 'fingertips' quickly. It is smaller than a hand towel, yet larger than a wash cloth. A fingertip towel can be functional, decorative, or both. It can be laid on the countertop next to the sink, hung on a small towel rack, or draped over coordinating bath towels or hand towels, particularly in guest bathrooms. </span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">The fingertip towel adds a gracious touch to the home and can have multiple uses, especially those woven from linen. Linen is a highly absorbent, soft fiber which does not leave lint, making it the perfect cloth to dry fine crystal, prized silverware, and delicate china without scratching. Linen fingertip towels are versatile—apart from making the perfect drying cloth, they can be also be used in the kitchen as a general utility towel, as a tea towel, or even to line a bread basket. </span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">Fingertip towels make excellent housewarming and hostess gifts. Their simple elegance also make them a nice option for engagement and wedding gifts as well, especially when appropriately monogrammed.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">As an aside, traditionally, a fingertip towel was used at the formal dining table along with finger bowls: between courses, one would rinse fingers in the bowl and use the towel to dry their fingertips. However, in the present day, finger bowls have become less commonplace.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_cspwjcfq" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div align="center">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 112.5pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="300" id="_x0000_i1032" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140211/85/9a/61/59/0eb21da44a46e9f520ba250f_300x300.jpg" width="300" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_scpvihwf" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><div style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="e2ma-style"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt;">.</span></span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" id="block_fzmbdheq" style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 0in 3.75pt;"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in 3.75pt 3.75pt;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 0in;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><tbody>
<tr><td style="padding: 7.5pt 112.5pt;" valign="top"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 9pt;"><img border="0" height="299" id="_x0000_i1033" src="http://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20140211/c4/c5/d5/de/78c35cbabf54cff32fa946b0_300x299.jpg" width="300" /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-44654941092424536262014-02-11T08:12:00.002-08:002014-02-11T08:12:15.794-08:00Snuggle up with something warm. Try a Modal Blanket.<div class="moreAnswers" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Modal fabric is a cellulose fiber, created by spinning cellulose fibers from beech trees. It is a very light weight fabric similar to cotton, yet warmer than cotton, with a lovely drape. Modal is a variety of rayon, yet can be dyed just like cotton and is color fast in warm water. Garments and other items created from Modal are also 50% more absorbent than cotton, and also shrink and fade </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"></span><div class="moresent" style="color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
resistant. It is smoother and softer than mercerized cotton, and can be used alone or in combination with other textiles. Modal has become a favorite of both manufacturers as well as individual crafters for use in creating anything from household linens to wonderful wearables.</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<div class="moresent" style="color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCBc0W8zrHMYrrPrKOnHgMuIM6LAQo539z1pQvnqc4FLWAAaCNB69dpQwW2CzaDlfryWooEsIHyG_rPkiD5prUaUz-HNemWZToP6NZDW9yaim36C1a5iS7oj8OBDvE7k5POIZmUrNvnWY/s1600/dreammodal_bed3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdCBc0W8zrHMYrrPrKOnHgMuIM6LAQo539z1pQvnqc4FLWAAaCNB69dpQwW2CzaDlfryWooEsIHyG_rPkiD5prUaUz-HNemWZToP6NZDW9yaim36C1a5iS7oj8OBDvE7k5POIZmUrNvnWY/s1600/dreammodal_bed3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<div class="moresent" style="color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-22867735357832024632014-02-10T12:02:00.000-08:002014-02-10T12:02:06.949-08:00Bath Towel Basics<div class="suggestEdit" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Droid Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; outline: none;">
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="0">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
Bath towels may come in many different colors and textures. Some may consider them to be an afterthought, but a full set in an appropriate color scheme gives the bathroom a coordinated and inviting appearance for visitors. While many of us might get away with using one or two mismatched towels and a wash cloth, there is actually a specific function for each type of towel available.</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; outline: none;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="1">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
The smallest form of bath towels are called washcloths. These small squares of <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-terrycloth.htm" style="color: #24364f; margin: 0px; outline: none;">terrycloth</a> (a textured cotton blend) are meant to assist bathers with lathering and gentle scrubbing. Because the use of washcloths can be so intimate, many hosts will keep a generous supply on hand to insure individual usage..</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; outline: none;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="2">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
The next largest towels are called hand towels and are used primarily near the bathroom sink. Hand towels feature many of the design elements of larger bath towels, so they should be coordinated. A small hanger or loop may be used to position the hand towels near the sink. Guests should use them primarily for drying their clean hands and faces, not as a larger substitute for a washcloth. Hosts often readjust hand towels on the hanger for a balanced look between uses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXwHRKEuKJKQ2lY61I_3IldFTXleaTgEVb5CX_Le1sdcI1iOxbiIO1h_Z0LwRQr1ndzIO0CARPrbYew7PMcKVy992b5Fy2NDA_h0lb4y6uSJb_jdcSJBTeGAyVKjJkHGq_XuThQd_ZwXz/s1600/towels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUXwHRKEuKJKQ2lY61I_3IldFTXleaTgEVb5CX_Le1sdcI1iOxbiIO1h_Z0LwRQr1ndzIO0CARPrbYew7PMcKVy992b5Fy2NDA_h0lb4y6uSJb_jdcSJBTeGAyVKjJkHGq_XuThQd_ZwXz/s1600/towels.jpg" height="300" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="suggestEdit" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Droid Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; outline: none;">
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="3">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
Another common style of bath towels are used to absorb excess water following a bath or shower. These are called bath mats, and should only be used for that purpose. Bath mats are generally thicker than standard towels for better absorption and traction. Bath mats should be color-coordinated with the rest of the towels, but some standard sets may not offer them. Hosts may also choose a <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-bath-mat.htm" style="color: #24364f; margin: 0px; outline: none;">bath mat</a> with a complementary color scheme or a style which matches the shower curtains.</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; outline: none;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="4">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
The next size in bath towels is the standard towel most of us use on a daily basis. Standard towels are cut from a generous amount of terrycloth for maximum absorption. These larger towels are usually stored in a <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-linen-closet.htm" style="color: #24364f; margin: 0px; outline: none;">linen closet</a> or hung on a wall-mounted rack until needed. Bathers should generally use standard-size towels to dry their clean skin after showering or bathing. Those with long hair may also use them as makeshift turbans for hair drying. A terrycloth bathrobe should be available for modesty, since towels are rarely large enough for complete coverage.</div>
<div style="margin: 0px; outline: none;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="suggested" style="margin: 0px; outline: none;" suggestbuttonid="5">
<div style="margin-bottom: 18px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: justify;">
The largest towels available are called bath sheets. These over-sized towels can be 6 feet in length or more. Many bathers find a bath sheet to be preferable to the standard bath towels offered in hotels or guest rooms. Standard towels can become saturated with water quickly, but a bath sheet has much more surface area for absorption. Bath sheets can also be used as emergency wraps for modesty. Not all towel sets offer these over-sized bath sheets, but many find them to be worthwhile investments</div>
</div>
</div>
A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-563475180390797142014-02-06T07:53:00.000-08:002014-02-06T08:05:57.052-08:00What is Chenille?Q: What is Chenille?<br />
<br />
A: Chenille is a type of yarn that has pile (short lengths of yarn) protruding on all sides. It is produced by placing the pile between two core yarns and twisting the yarns together. The pile then stands at right angles to the core, giving Chenille both its softness and its distinctive look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qXSKUWTHdmvLwsCDjG7i0jnIVZR3uwHRJGwr1_V-7IqN6m4w-poZ7UR_6U6FbIjuKlSGiHsCLtuGZguXKIIbikLKq1gpSuaA_7ROy8kEiBNDt_aF-xAiDc8reshEyvr9v_5S_AmUIyVo/s1600/chenille.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qXSKUWTHdmvLwsCDjG7i0jnIVZR3uwHRJGwr1_V-7IqN6m4w-poZ7UR_6U6FbIjuKlSGiHsCLtuGZguXKIIbikLKq1gpSuaA_7ROy8kEiBNDt_aF-xAiDc8reshEyvr9v_5S_AmUIyVo/s1600/chenille.jpg" /></a></div>
Chenille is the French word for caterpillar, and the yarn, being thick, soft, and fuzzy, looks a little like a caterpillar. The use of Chenille provides added texture and interest. It is generally utilized for embroidery, fringes, and tassels.A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-64821261589826724572012-08-22T10:03:00.002-07:002012-08-22T10:03:27.077-07:00Egyptian Cotton<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span></strong> What should YOU know about Egyptian Cotton?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>A:</strong></span> As the term implies, Egyptian cotton is used to describe cotton grown in Egypt. The fertile Nile River valley of Egypt has long been considered the most desirable setting for growing the finest cotton in the world. It has the perfect climate to produce cotton with extra-long fibers; the valley is sufficiently humid and the soil is rich in nutrients. This reputation is precisely what makes the term "Egyptian cotton" so meaningful to consumers. <br />
<br />
It is important to recognize that Egypt grows a variety of different types of cotton, which are categorized by the length of the cotton fiber (known as <em>staple</em>). There is Extra-Long Staple (ELS), Long-Staple (LS), and regular cotton, and there are significant differences between these varieties. <br />
<br />
The ELS fibers allow the cotton to be spun into much finer, softer, and stronger yarns. And fabric woven with ELS cotton is more breathable, providing greater comfort. It also produces less lint and has less of a tendency to pill. And as an added bonus, it becomes softer with every laundering. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, most products labeled "Egyptian cotton" are <em>not</em> made with ELS cotton yarns. Only a small percentage of the Egyptian cotton production is ELS, and within the ELS category, the finest varietals are not being grown in any significant quantities. Therefore, it is best to be somewhat wary when "Egyptian cotton" is listed as the fiber content. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKhdITRgJJRDMwcWHzMv_R4PlEljrZas9ljjTT7fI-WMttHxgQbwx7brHdLFeNICnZmVsI5-dPgb9yRjqp_jNKgbSV0k5krzNEKzaBsVMlI9Ser8oF4FhOqTGi7Z1dEfjgNQumlHLWsCn/s1600/cotton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKhdITRgJJRDMwcWHzMv_R4PlEljrZas9ljjTT7fI-WMttHxgQbwx7brHdLFeNICnZmVsI5-dPgb9yRjqp_jNKgbSV0k5krzNEKzaBsVMlI9Ser8oF4FhOqTGi7Z1dEfjgNQumlHLWsCn/s320/cotton.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #cccccc; font-size: xx-small;">brought to you by SFERRA**</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-35599116327201558662012-08-15T09:29:00.002-07:002012-08-15T09:29:48.927-07:00Gingham Check Pattern<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Q:</b></span> What is a <b>gingham check pattern</b>?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A:</b></span> Gingham is a plain weave, yarn-dyed cotton or cotton-blend fabric. Gingham was originally woven with stripe patterns, but is also woven with checks (two colors) or plaids (three or more colors).<br />
<br />
A <b>gingham check pattern</b> is created by weaving parallel horizontal and vertical stripes of equal widths, either in a white and color-dyed yarn, or two color-dyed yarns. The crisscrossing of the two colors in the warp (lengthwise strands attached to the loom) and weft (horizontal strands that cross the warp) produces an allover pattern of solid-color, square checks. The two colors of stripes intersect to form a third color check. Think of a classic red picnic cloth or Dorothy's blue dress in the Wizard of Oz.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1cbdNV1vSP_mZMTbCwYCEu_pLV0J3D8jy2UjeqAREbm_tFT-V0RtspdjgOQYy9GjBHS-K7seq7gyaBMkvgYVtEfJ1xGJ_SYxJJbTKPbXRLZR6CT0Lse9ZaoZLzBpJqXMuxgouXMRoHAS/s1600/Gingham-blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1cbdNV1vSP_mZMTbCwYCEu_pLV0J3D8jy2UjeqAREbm_tFT-V0RtspdjgOQYy9GjBHS-K7seq7gyaBMkvgYVtEfJ1xGJ_SYxJJbTKPbXRLZR6CT0Lse9ZaoZLzBpJqXMuxgouXMRoHAS/s1600/Gingham-blue.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #f3f3f3;">**Brought to you by SFERRA.</span></span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-27060625893910915652012-08-01T09:36:00.002-07:002012-08-01T09:36:23.088-07:00Punto Ombra Hem<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Q:</b></span> What is a punto ombra hem?<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A: </b></span>Punto ombra is a special Italian hem treatment in which a satin stitch is embroidered on the reverse side of the fabric. This stitch creates a low-relief, or raised, borer on the front of the fabric for a subtly finished hem. A punto ombra hem is clean-lined, elegant, and resilient. It is much more subtle than the classic satin stitch, for it uses the fabric itself to create the hem, ensuring a perfect match with the color of the fabric.<br />
<br />
Below is an example of a punto ombra hem from SFERRA called Avellina:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-Yhtoeg9p1szK12gf9SNthkQa6s-y0-apuGc5Pnb3kdWH0ZV9BvwSEMGmW9C7qtcZ49DHxOUeNfEYWi1__seozRFkCrUZRV02kNsEaiFQMG6EBGjJ1BoSdfZ04kwHvlzFIRmlBCcpzI3/s1600/sferra+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-Yhtoeg9p1szK12gf9SNthkQa6s-y0-apuGc5Pnb3kdWH0ZV9BvwSEMGmW9C7qtcZ49DHxOUeNfEYWi1__seozRFkCrUZRV02kNsEaiFQMG6EBGjJ1BoSdfZ04kwHvlzFIRmlBCcpzI3/s1600/sferra+image.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #cccccc;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #cccccc;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc; font-size: xx-small;">**Brought to you by SFERRA</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-4310083980299072432012-07-26T08:07:00.003-07:002012-07-26T08:07:38.310-07:00We Know What Pique Is, Do You?<span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span> What is Piqué fabric?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A:</span> Piqué (pronounced "pee-kay") fabric is characterized by raised designs - cords, waffles, or patterns. Technically, piqué fabric is known as a double-cloth, with the unique texture achieved by weaving two layers of fabric, one above the other, on the same loom. The piqué weave creates more body and crispness than a plain weave.<br />
<br />
Below is a close-up of a 100% Egyptian cotton, lightweight, miniature-piqué pattern. A Touch of Lace offers a wide-variety of piqué blanket covers, shams, and bedskirts. Stop in our store, or visit our website to view some of our piqué products: <a href="http://www.atouchoflace.com/" target="_blank">A Touch of Lace.</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPyuVUvrbnpYhkf6CCoEar7EAk8tXzuJYKEAcOULA0ViTLdM4ETX9djknoq56XWc4Jl2mh_G1jafdyP7vaj6aH1wN4accYcPOEMCafFrq6c_eJnyRP_nY0hlYFxh2dLq18D98va9PGjM-/s1600/pique.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPyuVUvrbnpYhkf6CCoEar7EAk8tXzuJYKEAcOULA0ViTLdM4ETX9djknoq56XWc4Jl2mh_G1jafdyP7vaj6aH1wN4accYcPOEMCafFrq6c_eJnyRP_nY0hlYFxh2dLq18D98va9PGjM-/s1600/pique.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #cccccc;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">brought to you by SFERRA** </span></div>
<br />
<br />A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-73663109284732938662012-07-19T13:51:00.002-07:002012-07-19T13:51:21.600-07:00Care for Your Bed Linens<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Q:</b></span> What is the best way to care for your bed linens?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A:</b> </span>Caring for your bed linens can be easy if you follow some simple suggestions. In return, you will prolong the life of your bed linens and preserve their beautiful appearance. Remember with any linens to be sure to read the care label for best results.<br />
<br />
<b>Washing -</b> Pre-wash your linens before first use. Separate your linens from other items in the wash, especially those containing polyester, which tends to create pilling, and items with heavy zippers, which can damage the fabric. Separate light and dark colors. Avoid overloading the washing machine, which can cause fibers to break down from excessive abrasion and agitation. You can wash most linens in warm water on a gentle cycle with a cold-water rinse, but be sure to check the care label.<br />
(<i>A Touch of Lace</i> offers a wonderful line of linen, towel, silk and lingerie, and laundry wash)<br />
<br />
<b>Detergent -</b> Use a mild detergent without added bleach, whiteners, or fabric softeners. Do not pour detergent directly on textiles; rather, add it to the water as the wash tub fills or dilute detergent with water, then add linens. Unless linens are very soiled, you only need to use half the recommended amount of detergent.<br />
<br />
<b>Bleaching - </b>Chlorine bleach will weaken fibers and cause the fabric to yellow.<br />
<br />
<b>Drying -</b> While line drying outdoors is gentle, safe and imbues linens with the fresh scent of the outdoors and natural bleaching of the sun, it is not always practical. You can machine dry most linens on low heat, but be sure to check the care label. Shake out damp linens before placing in the dryer. Never use a high heat setting, which will weaken the fibers, damage the fabric, increase shrinkage, and shorten the life of your linens. Remove items from dryer promptly, while still damp, to minimize wrinkles. Smooth and fold, or press with an iron, if desired.<br />
<br />
<b>Ironing -</b> Check to make sure your steam iron is clean - mineral deposits could cause brown spotting. Iron linens while still damp. To restore the lustrous face of sateen fabrics, iron on the reverse side. For embroidered linens, iron them on the reverse side atop a towel to preserve the three-dimensional effect of the embroidery. Use a press cloth to protect delicate lace and cutwork.<br />
(<i>A Touch of Lace</i> now carries linen water for ironing in four luxurious scents.) <br />
<br />
<b>Shrinkage - </b>All natural fibers will shrink to some extent, but some companies generously overcut their products to allow for shrinkage. Do not wash, or, especially, dry linens on a hot setting, which is most likely to damage the fabric and intensify shrinkage. Always follow instructions on care label.<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Storing Linens -</b> Store bed linens in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Linens stored long-term should be wrapped in white cotton, muslin (old pillow cases work well) or acid-free paper. Avoid storing linens in plastic bags or boxes, which can cause permanent yellowing; natural fibers need to breathe. Cedar chests can also yellow or streak fabrics. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #cccccc;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cccccc; font-size: xx-small;">**Brought to you by SFERRA</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-15287101081169482762012-06-28T12:44:00.000-07:002012-06-28T12:50:51.419-07:00Herringbone<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Q: </b></span>What is a herringbone weave?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A: </b></span>A herringbone weave is a variation of a twill weave that results in a broken zigzag pattern. It is made up of short parallel rows, slanted in one direction and then another, forming a distinctive "V"-shaped design. A herringbone weave is often made more prominent by using two colors - one in the weft and another in the warp. The slope or degree of the angle of the diagonal rows can be altered by varying the number, tightness or size of yarns. Because it resembles the skeleton of a herring fish, this woven pattern came to be known as herringbone.<br />
<br />
Although similar, a herringbone pattern differs from that of a chevron. To achieve either one, a twill weave is required. However, a chevron is a true zigzag with the direction reversing at the exact point of the change, while a herringbone has a break, and actually jumps one or more places, when the direction changes.<br />
<br />
Below is an image of a herringbone weave:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirox1YhNV7OkHPHCSnnnRiRRtu8gf3j_eVFgriorjDbVdvgKdiHVh7eMhR4vB1VJS4xy3xDWPS3q0UhYGwQksm7O12s3Jo-oj0Xu6oOQ7as8LT-s1AOrD4BYW1h1rZ9Yb6W2yn1BmzVtFW/s1600/Herringbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirox1YhNV7OkHPHCSnnnRiRRtu8gf3j_eVFgriorjDbVdvgKdiHVh7eMhR4vB1VJS4xy3xDWPS3q0UhYGwQksm7O12s3Jo-oj0Xu6oOQ7as8LT-s1AOrD4BYW1h1rZ9Yb6W2yn1BmzVtFW/s1600/Herringbone.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: black;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-38937653405928176252012-06-21T12:48:00.003-07:002012-06-21T12:48:52.942-07:00Tablecloth Sizes<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Q:</b></span> What size tablecloth do you need for your table?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A: </b></span>It is easy to calculate the proper size of a tablecloth:<br />
<ul>
<li>For a square or oblong table:</li>
</ul>
<ul><ul>
<li>Measure the length and width of the table.</li>
<li>Decide on the length of the drop you prefer. The drop is the amount of fabric that hangs down from the top of the table. A typical drop ranges between 10 to 12". If you want your tablecloth to go to the floor, then the drop would usually be 30" (a typical table height), but measure just in case. </li>
<li>Add the amount of the drop multiplied by two to both the length and the width of the table.</li>
<li>For example: If the table measures 42" wide x 84" long and you want a 12" drop, then the oblong tablecloth should measure 66" (42" width + 24" total drop) x 108" (84" length + 24" total drop). </li>
</ul>
<li> For a round table:</li>
<ul>
<li>Measure the diameter of your table.</li>
<li>Decide on the length of the drop.</li>
<li>Add the amount of the drop multiplied by two to the diameter of the table. </li>
<li>For example: If the table measures 60" in diameter and you want it to go to the floor with a 30" drop, then the round tablecloth should measure 120" (60" diameter + 60" total drop). </li>
</ul>
</ul>
Also remember to allow for shrinkage and add the appropriate amounts to your final calculations. A linen tablecloth or a cotton tablecloth may shrink approximately 4% to 8%. For a ringspun polyester tablecloth there is no shrinkage. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brought to you by SFERRA**</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-56105886382520873222012-06-21T12:36:00.000-07:002012-06-21T12:36:45.605-07:00Tablecloth Shapes<b><span style="font-size: large;">Q:</span> </b>How does the shape of a table make a difference when selecting a tablecloth?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A: </b></span>Tables are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. An oblong is a rectangle having length greater than width. An oval also has length greater than width, but it has continuous curved sides. Below are images of some common table shapes:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNMsy868UK1BB5ucRawi723FB3cJcfTgu44EQ-YJxCSdl4cRcQJ8JMHf7yNHSiponOTslHxNiYbLmamEzX05APvZJs7a5F0qq_V62BMr-2LnbSf9TSkJnfu2RfHmW8YTFYbvSWYpOXnlco/s1600/image003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNMsy868UK1BB5ucRawi723FB3cJcfTgu44EQ-YJxCSdl4cRcQJ8JMHf7yNHSiponOTslHxNiYbLmamEzX05APvZJs7a5F0qq_V62BMr-2LnbSf9TSkJnfu2RfHmW8YTFYbvSWYpOXnlco/s400/image003.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A rectangle, a rounded rectangle, and a racetrack are all oblong and use an oblong tablecloth. A round table that is lengthened with leaves is an oblong, racetrack shaped table.<br />
<br />
You may use an oblong tablecloth on an oval shaped table, but be advised that the tablecloth will "spire" in the corners with a longer drop towards the floor than on the sides and this is perfectly normal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">brought to you by SFERRA** </span><br />
<br />A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-87313855223722692812012-06-06T12:21:00.002-07:002012-06-06T12:21:29.530-07:00What is a flange?A flange is a classic decorative accent, typically added along three sides of a duvet cover and on all four sides of a pillow sham. A flange extends beyond the dimensions of a duvet or sham, creating a large, elegant flourish. The finest linens use flanges, as well as hemstitching, to create the signature look and soft drape of luxury bedding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ66g0cSAeTRvhcFPV8TGkF9E9-aYrM938V6f9dq2_CVokbj9fwrJhL2xCM7yyZdhosEpye5pCjgTd5C-WzgoeNYGUs6bl99DG3YjP8qyDcFGlyLrv75ADIEC_2LY_PHC90OjjZoHqEyE/s1600/image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZ66g0cSAeTRvhcFPV8TGkF9E9-aYrM938V6f9dq2_CVokbj9fwrJhL2xCM7yyZdhosEpye5pCjgTd5C-WzgoeNYGUs6bl99DG3YjP8qyDcFGlyLrv75ADIEC_2LY_PHC90OjjZoHqEyE/s320/image002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brought to you by SFERRA** </span><br />A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-10908312590817102272012-05-10T13:24:00.004-07:002012-05-10T13:24:59.078-07:00What is Eiderdown?Eiderdown is down that comes from the Eider, a large sea duck that lives on the northern coasts of Europe, Asia, and North America. The Eider's nest is built close to the sea and is lined with the celebrated eiderdown. This soft and warm lining has long been harvested for filling comforters and pillows. Although eiderdown comforters and pillows are now a rarity, eiderdown harvesting continues and is sustainable, as it can be done after the ducklings leave the nest with no harm to the birds. Eiderdown is exceptionally soft and has insulating properties far superior to any other down.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilld-HkWRCx0O4IniPolrtReEuZE1Y9hsvew3-bRYn0dChz7DUznGNIZjE6drlK4P2RTc-3SGjNFzrXh514tHVJgCfLvX_GtKNUzK77zXGqLFp-OnP_WNauv2eYo10RBPRYxrzwxwbq1l/s1600/Eiderducks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilld-HkWRCx0O4IniPolrtReEuZE1Y9hsvew3-bRYn0dChz7DUznGNIZjE6drlK4P2RTc-3SGjNFzrXh514tHVJgCfLvX_GtKNUzK77zXGqLFp-OnP_WNauv2eYo10RBPRYxrzwxwbq1l/s320/Eiderducks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Eiderdown is a unique plumage. Fill power cannot accurately be measured because of the way each cluster clings to the other. Typical goose and duck down tends to sit loosely in a product and can shift and "flow." Eiderdown tends to hold together and is generally more resilient. This clingy behavior also makes it better at trapping air and, therefore, a better insulator.<br />
<br />
Stop by <i>A Touch of Lace</i> to pick out your very own eiderdown comforter! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Brought to you by SFERRA</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-41671616561594845872012-05-09T13:24:00.001-07:002012-05-09T13:28:56.323-07:00Alpaca is a wool, but what type of animal is the alpaca?The alpaca is a long-haired, domesticated member of the camel family, native to South America, and highly-prized for its silky, long-fiber wool. In appearance, the alpaca resembles a llama.<br />
<br />
Its fleece produces a lustrous, silken natural-fiber yarn. Usually, less than half of the annual alpaca shear, the undercoat, is of a quality suitable for weaving textiles. The remainder of the shear is guard hair, or overcoat - coarser, straighter hairs - which must be removed prior to spinning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboMB9Ufbjx8JMJdta1IgNeVzQigN0CPqFX-W9HGyfXQXrx1nFC5b1_ktIRIMH7yNnSn8flrBVJjxwBOHMHuA8Ojn1lYRy-pTi-uNEBw65c8o9IhIidlSmzv83VAm2pODtVvrL_CfwWxjD/s1600/alpaca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboMB9Ufbjx8JMJdta1IgNeVzQigN0CPqFX-W9HGyfXQXrx1nFC5b1_ktIRIMH7yNnSn8flrBVJjxwBOHMHuA8Ojn1lYRy-pTi-uNEBw65c8o9IhIidlSmzv83VAm2pODtVvrL_CfwWxjD/s320/alpaca.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Alpaca is considered by many to be as soft and warm as cashmere, yet is lighter in weight, producing yarn with greater durability and strength. Its softness is derived from the fine diameter of its fibers; because the alpaca's hair fibers have a smoother surface than most other wool-producing animals, textiles made from alpaca yield a beautiful sheen and luster. And while it has similarities to sheep's wool, alpaca fibers are naturally hypoallergenic because they contain no lanolin.<br />
<br />
Stop in <i>A Touch of Lace</i> to pick a beautiful alpaca throw, offered in various colors!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Brought to you by SFERRA</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-60204077095415901292012-05-09T13:12:00.002-07:002012-05-09T13:32:32.353-07:00Why Do Some Cotton Sheets Pill?Pilling occurs when fibers in the fabric break, tangle, and "ball up." The shorter the fibers used in the fabric, the most likely the chance for breakage. The more brittle the fiber, the more breakage will occur. Cotton sheets may pill for a variety of reasons.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
What pilling looks like:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNFzPVXThzbXpEPxFdODKjPF-XZ9zRvREgqO9G16ABpJfY8Gw_2Fki_hAOM-peDn8_dLOxq7ncz2CZ2Qp6cjbj-uEHCemG7bjpDsjvR0-kcV1ozrqg6PM4XNvdtrNfIAz51THMJTS-2dj/s1600/pilling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNFzPVXThzbXpEPxFdODKjPF-XZ9zRvREgqO9G16ABpJfY8Gw_2Fki_hAOM-peDn8_dLOxq7ncz2CZ2Qp6cjbj-uEHCemG7bjpDsjvR0-kcV1ozrqg6PM4XNvdtrNfIAz51THMJTS-2dj/s1600/pilling.jpg" /></a></div>
Generally, the longer the cotton fabric, and the tighter the twist of the yarn, the most stable the fabric will be and the less chance there will be for pilling. Even the finest of fabrics can pill without proper care, handling, and laundering. Disregarding care instructions may cause fabric to wear and pill. For instance, using chlorine bleach and excessive fabric softener can weaken the fibers, and drying at high heat levels can cause fibers to break.<br />
<br />
As an individual sleeps, the act of tossing, turning, and moving against weakened fibers creates friction. Over time, this friction can cause these fibers to break (and then, to pill). This is why fitted sheets tend to pill more heavily at the foot of the bed, where the most abrasive and frequent movement occurs.<br />
<br />
The best way to prevent pilling is to follow the care instructions. For the care of fine linens, a short wash cycle with gentle detergent is recommended. Then, use a low-heat setting during the drying cycle and remove the bedding while still slightly damp. Please take note that even the agitation of the washing machine or the tumbling of the dryer can cause breakage, so never overfill the washer or dryer to avoid additional friction during these cycles. Also, avoid laundering your sheets with other items, such as towels, for the high nap on a towel may cause a breakdown of the cotton fibers. To be safe, launder sheets seperately.<br />
<br />
It should be noted that, because of the differences in construction, Percale weave have less of a tendency to pill than Sateen weaves. So, if in doubt, go with a Percale.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Brought to you by SFERRA</span>A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-55568531303011289762012-05-09T12:50:00.003-07:002012-05-09T12:50:48.524-07:00Do You Use Bleach?Dishwashing detergents use chlorine bleach, benzoyl peroxide, or perborate in the liquid, gel, or powder formulas. Toothpaste and tooth whitening aids use hydrogen peroxide to clean and brighten your smile. Acne preparations often have benzoyl peroxide, and hair colorings might contain hydrogen peroxide to do their work!<br />
<br />
Sink cleansers, mildew removers, laundry stain removers, and brightening detergents will frequently have one of the three most common bleaches as a component.<br />
<br />
Remember that bleaches include hydrogen peroxide, sodium perborate, sodium percarbonate, and chlorine. Whenever a label says it will whiten, or brighten or disinfect, bleach may be part of the product- and concentrated amounts can cause a color change! So handle these products with care.<br />
<br />
Here is a breakdown of what products contain the following ingredients:<br />
<br />
<b>ACID</b><br />
Moisturizers, skin care products, hand sanitizer, hand lotions, deodorant, tanning products and sun block, callus removers, eye and nose drops, bubble bath, hair conditioner, fade creams, cough syrup and children's liquid medicines, joint pain creams and lotions, perfumes<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>ALKALINE</b><br />
Shampoo, toothpaste, soap, depilatories, disinfectants, ammonia, hair dye, Drano, Windex, bath gel, shave cream, some deodorants<br />
<br />
<b>BLEACH</b><br />
Toothpaste, teeth whitening kits, acne medications, some moisturizers, hair lightening products, household cleaning and sanitizing products, mildew removers, shower spray cleaner<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>ALCOHOL</b><br />
Rubbing alcohol, perfume and cologne, body sprays, facial toners and astringentsA Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-40958134753036892672012-04-04T13:40:00.000-07:002012-04-04T13:40:40.546-07:00Are bleach and fabric softener okay? No way.Here at <i>A Touch of Lace</i>, we are asked on a weekly basis if it's okay to use chlorine bleach or fabric softener to wash fine linens. Thanks to our friends at SFERRA they've provided us with the perfect response and, we must say, we couldn't have said it better ourselves:<br />
<br />
A: NO, it is not okay to use chlorine bleach or fabric softener when washing fine linens. Chlorine bleach will cause fading and discoloration. In addition, it will break down and permanently weaken the cotton fibers. It may also leave a residue on the fabric. It is equally important to ensure that your linens do not come in contact with other forms of household bleach products, such as face creams or toothpaste. If necessary, an oxygen-based bleach may be used - It is safe for use on almost all washable fabrics and colors. When using an oxygen-based bleach, the chemical ingredient oxidizes to help remove soil and organic matter brightening the fabric and removing stains.<br />
<br />
Fabric softener is designed to coat fibers in oils, waxes, and fragrances that might make the fabric feel soft, but the build-up of chemicals can damage the fabric. In addition, fabric softeners clog the pores of Egyptian cotton sheets, preventing them from breathing and decreasing the luster and gloss of the appearance. High quality Egyptian cotton linens do not need to be treated with fabric softener and, actually, with repeated washings and dryings, become softer naturally.<br />
<br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>A Touch of Lace</i> offers linen wash that will make your linens feel and look impeccable!A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1249380845268246252.post-20128809419542060332012-03-22T07:46:00.001-07:002012-03-22T07:48:35.059-07:00We're Having a Spring Fling!<i>A Touch of Lace</i> is excited to announce our Spring Fling Sale!! We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate this weather than with a fabulous sale! All tabletop (tablecloths, napkins, and place mats) are 20% off now through March 31st. We have cotton, linen, lace, everything you could imagine!<br />
<br />
Hosting Passover or Easter this year? The best way to impress your guests is with elegant table linens! <br />
<br />
Do you have an unusual table size? Don't fret, our sale includes special orders (inbound shipping not included)! There's less than two weeks left, so hurry in and place your order!A Touch of Lacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06547368403121637817noreply@blogger.com0