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Textiles & Patterns

Matelasse

Matelasse is a double-woven fabric that creates a raised, quilted or puckered surface texture entirely through its weave structure, without any actual padding or quilting stitches. The name comes from the French word matelasser meaning to quilt or pad, reflecting the fabric's convincing imitation of quilted textiles. The dimensional effect is achieved by weaving two layers of fabric simultaneously with different tension levels. In interior design, matelasse offers the visual richness of quilted texture with the practicality of a single-layer woven fabric. This makes it lighter, easier to care for, and more versatile than actual quilted textiles while providing similar visual depth and sophistication. Matelasse bedspreads have been staples of traditional bedrooms for centuries, and the fabric continues to be valued for its elegant, understated texture that adds dimension without pattern or color complexity.

Key Characteristics

  • ✓Raised, quilted appearance created through weave structure alone
  • ✓No actual padding or quilting involved
  • ✓Double-woven construction with tension-created dimension
  • ✓Lighter and easier to care for than true quilted textiles
  • ✓Elegant, understated dimensional texture
  • ✓Creates beautiful light and shadow play on the surface

Types & Variations

Medallion matelasse with large central motifs
Geometric matelasse with repeating structural patterns
Floral matelasse with raised botanical designs
Stripe matelasse with alternating raised and flat bands
Contemporary matelasse with minimalist textural patterns

Common Materials

Cotton for classic matelasse bedding and accessoriesCotton-linen blends for textured matelasse furnishingsSilk for luxurious matelasse accent piecesPolyester blends for easy-care matelasse bedcoversMercerized cotton for lustrous, refined matelasseOrganic cotton for sustainable matelasse textiles

Works Well With These Styles

TraditionalFrench CountryCoastalTransitionalRomantic

Placement & Usage Tips

A matelasse bedspread creates a serene, textured foundation for layered bedroom styling. Use matelasse pillow shams to coordinate with the bedspread for a unified but not matchy look. Matelasse coverlets also work beautifully draped over the foot of a bed.

💡 Pro Tip

White or ivory matelasse is one of the most timeless bedding investments. It works in virtually every bedroom style, from coastal to traditional, looks beautiful in natural light, and the woven dimensional texture becomes more pronounced and beautiful with each washing.

Related Terms

Jacquard Weave

A complex weaving technique using a programmable loom to create intricate, multi-colored patterns directly in the fabric structure rather than through printing.

Quilting

The craft of joining multiple layers of fabric with decorative stitching to create a padded textile, often featuring intricate pieced or appliqued designs.

Dobby Weave

A patterned weave produced on a dobby loom, creating small geometric or textural motifs like dots, diamonds, or raised stripes within the fabric.

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