Herringbone

Q: What is a herringbone weave?

A: 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.

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.

Below is an image of a herringbone weave:

Tablecloth Sizes

Q: What size tablecloth do you need for your table?

A: It is easy to calculate the proper size of a tablecloth:

• For a square or oblong table:

• Measure the length and width of the table.
• 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. 
• Add the amount of the drop multiplied by two to both the length and the width of the table.
• 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).
•  For a round table:
• Measure the diameter of your table.
• Decide on the length of the drop.
• Add the amount of the drop multiplied by two to the diameter of the table. 
• 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). 

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. 













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Tablecloth Shapes

Q: How does the shape of a table make a difference when selecting a tablecloth?

A: 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:

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.

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.















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What 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.

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