Sheet Sets & Valances

Thread count is often considered a simple measure of fabric quality, so that "standard" cotton thread counts are around 150 while good-quality sheets start at 180 and a count of 200 or higher is considered percale.

Thread count in sheets can range from 80 to 700, although most stores sell sheets that range from 180 to 320. In general, the higher the thread count, the softer the fabric feels, but that doesn't necessarily mean the sheets will last longer (and sheets with a higher thread count are usually more expensive).

Thread count is used as a measure of the coarseness or fineness of fabric. It is measured by counting the number of threads contained in one square inch of fabric, including both the length (warp) and width (weft) threads. It is used especially in regards to cotton linens such as bed sheets.

Extremely high thread counts (typically over 500) can be misleading as they usually use 'plied' yarns. i.e. one yarn that is made by twisting together multiple finer threads. None of our sheet sets or valances are plied yarns.

Sheets made of linen, flannel, or jersey have low thread counts due to the type of fabric. A high thread count would eliminate part of the appeal of these sheets.