What is a hemstitch?

A hemstitch is a decorative drawn threadwork technique. A section of parallel threads are removed from the fabric and the remaining perpendicular threads are grouped together with additional thread to make small ornate holes. Despite its name, a hemstitch is not limited to the edges or hems of fabric - it can be used as an ornamental stitch anywhere on the fabric. A hemstitch can be found on bed linens and even table linens (cloths and napkins).


One of our top selling sheets, SFERRA's Celeste features a beautiful hemstitch. Below is an image of these best-selling sheets:

Come in to A Touch of Lace today to pick up a set of your very own Celeste sheets!

What is Applique?

Applique refers to a needlework technique in which one layer of fabric is played over another layer of fabric and sewn in place. The term is French in origin and, in this context, means "applied" or "thing that has been applied." Typically, different fabrics are selected for the applique to add texture, contrast and style.

We're excited to announce a new addition to SFERRA's, Orlo. Below is an image of the new line which shows an applique of Camel sateen on an ivory percale base:

Orlo will be available in Camel on Ivory, Sea Mist on Ivory, Charcoal on White, Chocolate on White, Grey on White, Ivory on White, and Navy on White. The base fabric used is the Grande Hotel percale from Italy.

Lets Break Down the Weaving Process

Sferra is always about keeping their customers informed. Recently they sent out a breakdown of the weaving process, and who better to pass this information onto than YOU!

In the weaving process, the selvage (or selvedge) is the self-finished edge. Selvages keep the fabric from unraveling or fraying. The warp yarns are those running lengthwise or vertically, parallel to the selvage. They run the entire length of the fabric. The weft are those running widthwise or horizontally, perpendicular to the selvage. They loop back at the end of each row. 

Below is an image illustrating the selvage, warp and weft. 

Twill Weave Talk

A twill weave is a pattern of diagonal parallel ribs (in contrast with a sateen and plain weave). This is done by passing the weft thread over one or more warp threads and then under two or more warp threads and so on, with a "step" or offset between rows to create the characteristic diagonal pattern. Because of this structure, twills generally drape well.

Below is an illustration of the twill weave:

Witney is a Star!

We are incredibly happy to announce a famous addition to A Touch of Lace's family: Witney! A classic-multi-colored yarn-dyed sateen jacquard woven from the best Egyptian cotton. Witney is a beautiful sheeting brought to you by the masterminds at Sferra and was featured on the hit HBO series Boardwalk Empire!
The delicate pattern of leaves and flowers that dance across the surface are subtly rendered by these impeccably chosen threads.

Want to feel like a TV star? Then stop by A Touch of Lace today to purchase a set of your very own Witney sheets.