Lawn fabric: the pros and cons of an aristocratic material

Batiste is a fabric for which linen was originally used. Over time, this material was replaced by cotton fibers. In ancient times, thin and light cambric canvases served as an indicator of status. They were used to make dresses and scarves for the nobility. Nowadays the material is used mainly for sewing bed linen, but you can also find wardrobe items made from it.

A little history

Batiste - what kind of fabric is this? The first mention of this amazing material dates back to the 13th century. In the Middle Ages, products made of durable and weightless fabric, handmade from cotton threads, were imported from distant India. The beautiful handmade material immediately attracted the attention of the wealthy elite. They began to make bedding, delicate underwear, and beautiful ball gowns from it. They were incredibly expensive and were found in the wardrobes of the wealthiest and most influential people. A cambric scarf was a sign of a noble family.

It was the cambric handkerchief that belonged to the mysterious rich lady that was mentioned in the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas and almost caused a quarrel between the royal musketeer Aramis and the young and ardent Gascon.

In the 18th century, the Flemish weaver Jean-Baptiste Cambrai used Indian technology for producing wonderful fabric, but used flax rather than cotton as the raw material. The first canvases were made in basements. Increased humidity had a beneficial effect on the quality of the material. (Nowadays, glycerin is used to give elasticity to the fibers). Hereditary weaver J. Baptiste Cambrai was able to reveal the peculiarities of making beautiful fabric. Since then, it has received the name of the first European manufacturer. In Britain it is called by its surname – Cambric.

Soon, the thinnest, translucent material became incredibly popular at the courts of European monarchs and nobles. In honor of its creator it was named cambric, or cambric. Subsequently, fabric was also made from silk and wool, and in the 20th century, with the development of new technologies, synthetic fibers began to be used as raw materials.

How it is produced

The manufacturing process differs in some ways. The description of the incredible characteristics of cambric is explained by the dense plain weave of the finest twisted threads. This is the so-called combed yarn, made from the longest fibers. The yarn should be the same length without defects. The same thickness of warp and weft results in exceptional evenness and smoothness of the material. Unfortunately, cambric is not made in our country. The highest quality and most expensive fabric is produced in countries such as Italy, Northern France, Belgium.

The best fibers of the unique cotton, which is part of the cambric during production, are grown in Egypt or Peru.

What is ideal quality cambric is when the warp threads match the dimensions of the weft. To obtain such yarn, highly technical equipment is required.

Originally released without drawing. Today, a printed type is produced that resembles batik.

For mass production, cambric made from cotton and coarse flax is used. Expensive hand-sewn products are made from linen cambric. Raw materials are grown under special conditions. Pegs with crossbars are used, which are driven into the sown field. A mesh is created that protects the plant from the effects of heavy rain and wind. The result is a fiber that is particularly strong and thin.

Fabrics with the addition of synthetic materials are cheaper in price. It is unpretentious and wear-resistant. Disadvantage: May cause an allergic reaction.

Modern technology has made it possible to produce down-holding cambric. Used in the production of blankets. The material corresponds to 100% cotton. It has a minimum weight of 100 g. per one m2.

Description

Batiste, what kind of fabric is this? It feels pleasant to the touch. It is distinguished by tenderness and airiness. It has small fibers that give smoothness and softness. Modern industry produces several types of material:

• Bleached. An excellent base for wedding dresses, bed linen, and baby clothes. Pleasant and comfortable fabric for underwear and handkerchiefs. Often produced with hand embroidery and lace.
• Plain painted. Solid, luxurious material with permanent dyes. It is also used to make bed linen, wonderful tablecloths and chair covers for special events.
• Printed. Characterized by colorful patterns and embroidery. Printed fabrics are used to make summer clothes and bedding for country interiors.
• Mercerized. These fabrics are treated with concentrated alkali, after which they are thoroughly washed, first in hot, then in cold water. This technology makes the material much more impressive, increases strength and wear resistance and provides a wide range of applications.

Production

Color range
The production of cambric has its own characteristics. In order to achieve a perfectly smooth fabric, you need to use a special yarn. The warp and weft threads should be the same thickness.

There should be no thread throughout

thickening or thinning. Only a few manufacturers produce such yarn. The ideal choice for cambric production is Peruvian or Egyptian cotton .

Modern industry can offer consumers cambric with improved qualities and characteristics. This type of fabric is mercerized cambric .

Thanks to treatment with caustic soda and subsequent washing in water of different temperatures, the fabric acquires increased strength and wear resistance.

Also, a modern consumer can purchase printed cambric , which is often compared to batik. When producing printed fabric, embroidery is applied to the fabric, which makes the cambric unusually sophisticated and refined.

Today cambric has found wide application.

Designers highly value this fabric for its unpretentiousness, sophistication and incredible smoothness. In the latest collections of famous couturiers you can see wedding dresses made of bleached lawn, luxurious handmade lingerie and incredible designer jewelry that can make even the most modest outfit look royal.

Types of cambric fabric

The cambric material comes in several types: bleached, plain-dyed, printed. Each of them has its own characteristics.

Batiste bleached

The material is snow-white cotton. There is no lint. It is distinguished by its thinness and lightness. The basis of production is a thin twisted thread that undergoes special processing. The dazzling white color is achieved through the use of skin-friendly chemical solutions.

Used for sewing:

• handkerchief;
• wedding dress;
• underwear;
• baptism kits;
• children's clothing.

Fabric is an excellent option for embroidery.

Plain painted cambric

It has a uniform structure and rich monochrome shine. It shimmers under the rays of the sun. Good moisture and air permeability.

Used for sewing purposes:

• outfits for the holiday;
• napkins;
• tablecloths;
• curtains;
• transparent curtains;
• decorative items;
• bed linen.

This is useful to know

Calico is also widely used for sewing bed linen. Moreover, this cotton fabric is much cheaper. What is the difference between calico and cambric? It is characterized by low density and fragility, since cheap threads with simple torsion are used. Over time, pellets may appear.

Printed

This is cambric with embroidery. The fabric may have colored patterns. The decorative canvas is distinguished by a large selection of patterns and ornaments. Batiste with embroidery can decorate a wardrobe. Suitable for producing products with original designs. Manufactured according to customer's order.

Used for sewing summer clothes:

• dresses;
• blouses;
• sundresses

The cambric dress with embroidery creates a gentle, sophisticated and romantic look. Because it is possible to form airy and soft folds. The result is a semi-tight silhouette.

Mercerized

It is created by exposure to a concentrated sodium solution. After which the fabric is washed with contrasting water - hot, cold. The canvas becomes silky. It is considered the highest quality type. It is characterized by increased strength, durability, brightness of tone, and hygroscopicity. With gloss.

Sew from fabric:

• bedspreads;
• tablecloths;
• clothes;
• interior decorations.

A lining for a dress made of mercerized cambric is suitable for strengthening the shape of the product. It will also prevent rapid abrasion.

Batiste is also used for curtains. The results are pompous and elegant products. Batiste curtains will perfectly decorate a living room or bedroom, while providing cool fresh air in hot weather. To completely protect the room from light, a reflective lining is sewn onto the products.

Increasingly, the canvas is used by needlewomen for patchwork, applique, and scrapbooking.

To completely protect the room from light, a reflective lining is sewn onto the products.

Types that can be sewn (sewn) from such material

A large number of material properties depend on the variety. There is also a difference in which products are made of one type or another. For a complete understanding, it is necessary to consider them all separately:

1. Bleached. Pure white fabric, bleached with special substances. It is used as a basis for coloring and manufacturing of final products or as an independent material. It is used to make underwear, bedding, tablecloths, curtains, and elements of wedding dresses. The most common methods of decorating bleached cambric are dyeing and lace. Read about how to choose the right quality bedding here.
2. Plain painted. This type is colored. It is painted in one solid tone without a pattern and with a slight shine. Thanks to this, it is possible to achieve a stable color that is not washed off after washing and does not fade. This material is most often used for the production of bed linen, furniture upholstery, napkins, tablecloths, curtains, curtains.
3. Printed . The name is misunderstood, believing that this species is stuffed with something, like a plush toy. The point is that such fabric is printed with a bright design or pattern. Due to its colorful appearance, the canvas is used in the manufacture of women's and children's summer clothing. It is also suitable for the production of clothing with designer designs upon customer's order. Instroi furniture fabric has a similar method of applying a pattern to fabric, the properties of which can be found in this article.
4. Mercerized. A special type with increased wear resistance. This is achieved by treating with an alkali solution, and then rinsing alternately with hot and cold water. In addition to strength, this procedure strengthens the color, gives additional shine and smoothness. Thanks to these qualities, together with naturalness, the range of applications of mercerized cambric is almost unlimited.
5. Chambray. This variety has a significant feature than previous versions. Chambray is distinguished by its weave; by some users it is considered almost a different, independent fabric. The linen method is used. The properties and appearance are similar, but this variety is durable, holds color better, although it does not have shine. Modern, stylish, at the same time discreet clothes for young people are made from it: sundresses, dresses, trousers, skirts, tops, tunics. This type is included in the rating of the best fabrics for dresses.
6. Cotton. Pure cotton option. Has all the basic properties of the material. But this depends on how high-quality materials were used in production. Suitable as a basis for other varieties, can be used independently.
7. Jacquard. It gets its name from its characteristic jacquard pattern in a checkered or striped pattern. A drawing can be applied to it and it will look unusual. Usually this is an almost monochromatic pattern, distinguished by its relief and density, or a different color to achieve contrast. It produces beautiful tablecloths, curtains, bed linen, blouses, and scarves.

The main properties of Zhuravinka fabric for sewing a tablecloth can be found at the link.

Batiste: fabric composition

Made from linen, specially twisted cotton, silk. May have natural or synthetic impurities.

Cotton batiste, to which synthetic fibers are added, increases strength. They also make it easier to care for the products.

Silk cambric is a fabric with shine that flows like chiffon. It is easy to drape and lays beautifully in folds. The raw materials are 30% silk and 70% cotton. Used for sewing:

• stage costumes;
• belts;
• shirts;
• dressing gowns;
• gloves and other products.

Baptiste in literature

In V. Hugo's story “The Last Day of a Man Condemned to Death” one can see evidence that cambric was considered the fabric of aristocrats.

“Suddenly one of the henchmen pulled off my jacket, and the other took my lowered hands, pulled them behind my back, I felt a rope wrapped around my wrists. Meanwhile, the second one was taking off my tie.

Camber shirt

, - the only shred that remained of who I was before - confused him for a moment; then he began to cut off her collar.”

Advantages and disadvantages

Batiste fabric has the following advantages:

• Natural and environmentally friendly.
• Resistant to staining.
• Does not accumulate static electricity.
• No irritation or allergic reactions. The material is environmentally friendly and gentle and does not cause an allergic reaction in people with sensitive skin.
• High level of breathability. Clothes don't get hot in the summer. Allows the body to breathe.
• Excellent shape retention. The products are not subject to deformation, do not shrink, or stretch.
• Convenience when sewing. The special weave of the threads prevents the fabric from fraying.
• Light weight. Provides convenience and comfort when wearing.
• Practicality. The cambric material is easy to wash and iron. Dries quickly.

Along with the advantages, the fabric also has disadvantages:

• The lightness of the fabric creates difficulties in the cutting process.
• Requires special care.
• With frequent washing, it wears out quickly, since the cambric is thin.
• Not all types of fabric are suitable for formal wear.

On a note

Products made from bassista cannot be washed in hot water; a delicate cycle is used.

Advantages

Batiste, like any natural fabric, has undeniable advantages:

• hypoallergenic;
• reluctance to electrify;
• hygroscopicity;
• environmental friendliness;
• does not interfere with air circulation;
• has low weight.

This is a soft fabric that looks delicate and is slightly translucent. According to the main characteristics, it has high absorbency and dries quickly when wet. Denser variations based on flax, for example, soft cloth, do not have such lightness and transparency. Natural material is suitable for sewing casual and festive clothes, underwear and children's underwear.

Let's compare cambric with poplin and satin:

How to choose and where to buy

There is a large selection of canvas on sale. However, only a few European manufacturers are capable of producing high quality raw materials. For this purpose, cotton is used, which is grown in Peru and Egypt. It reads as being of the highest quality and most expensive.

You can buy fabric both in physical stores and in online stores that sell a variety of fabrics.

Before purchasing fabric, you need to familiarize yourself with the composition of the fabric. The percentage should be more cotton or linen.

It is advisable to choose fabric from a natural composition. It will be environmentally friendly, light and breathable.

When purchasing cambric products for children, you should avoid fabrics containing synthetic fibers. May cause allergies.

Important

When calculating the footage, it should be taken into account that the fabric shrinks by 10%. Therefore, before cutting, it is necessary to decatenate in warm water. This will also help determine the reliability of the paint if the canvas is colored or has a pattern. Do not wring out the fabric after decaling. Before drying, it should be carefully straightened.

This is useful to know. Some sellers do not cut the fabric, but tear it. In such a fabric, the cut turns out to be oblique, since the direction of the threads is disrupted. To fix it, you will need to cut off three to five cm of the canvas. Therefore, you should buy the product in stores where thin material is cut along an elongated thread.

Price

The cost of the canvas depends on the quality, manufacturer and composition. The price ranges from 190 rubles. 1926 rub. per meter

Rules for special care

This weightless, amazing fabric is incredibly good, both in clothing, underwear and in the interior. It is beautiful and durable, but short-lived. Frequent washing can quickly ruin its appearance.

It is advisable to hand wash only in cool water, without spinning. In case of emergency, you can wash the cambric in a machine, placing the fabric in a special bag, using the most gentle mode: spin up to 400 rpm and temperature up to 300°C. When washing, all items are fastened with zippers or buttons and turned inside out.

• You cannot wash items made from different materials together.
• Do not use chlorine bleaches.
• Products should be dried flat, in partial shade.
• Iron from the inside out and always through gauze.

If the product needs to be repaired, you need to choose the thinnest threads and needles. Exquisite and perfect cambric lingerie is intended for exceptional and special occasions. Therefore, it is unlikely that the disadvantages of this fabric are its low wear resistance and high price. And is it possible to evaluate the incredible feeling of lightness and floating in rubles, dollars or euros?..

Reviews about cambric

Review 3

My mother is a dressmaker. She made a birthday dress from cambric. The quality of the fabric is soft and pleasant. I was able to wear the dress for four seasons. The material is extremely durable, despite the thinness of the fabric. Marina

Review 2

I use cambric fabric for bed linen. This is an excellent option that warms in winter and keeps cool in summer. It is easy to wash, the main thing is to choose the right mode so as not to spoil the fabric. Natalia

Review 3

I decided to decorate the white cambric tablecloth. The fabric is wonderful for embroidery. It turned out elegant. I watch and enjoy it. Now I want to try embroidering cambric napkins. Evdokia Semenovna

In addition to cambric, printed jacquard looks luxurious in any product and decorates the interior of rooms. Learn about all the features of the fabric.

What fabric is best to buy bed linen from? What is the difference between satin and poplin? We make a comparison in our article.

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