Monk's Cloth
Monk's cloth is a type of fabric that is commonly used in home decor and apparel projects. It is a soft, heavy, and durable fabric that is characterized by its unique texture and weave. This fabric is made from a cotton or cotton blend yarn and has a basketweave structure with four floats, which creates a distinctive diamond pattern.
The origins of Monk's cloth are uncertain, but it is believed to have been used by monks in medieval times for clothing and bedding. Today, it is primarily used for home decor projects such as curtains, tablecloths, and throw pillows, as well as for making warm clothing such as jackets and coats.
The unique texture of Monk's cloth comes from the way it is woven. It is woven on a special loom that allows for the floats to be longer and more pronounced than in traditional basketweave fabrics. This gives the fabric a plush, nubby texture that is both soft and durable. Monk's cloth can be made in a variety of colors, but is most commonly found in natural shades such as beige, off-white, and light gray.
One of the main benefits of Monk's cloth is its versatility. It can be used for a variety of home decor and clothing projects, and is often used in upholstery due to its durability. The fabric is also easy to work with, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced sewers.
Monk's cloth is also a popular choice for traditional Swedish embroidery, known as "hemsl?jd." This style of embroidery is characterized by bold geometric patterns in bright colors, and is often used to decorate clothing, home decor items, and other textiles.
In terms of manufacturers and users, Monk's cloth is produced by a variety of textile mills and can be found in many fabric stores and online retailers. Some popular brands include Zweigart and Charles Craft. In terms of users, Monk's cloth is popular among home sewers and DIY enthusiasts, as well as professional designers and upholsterers.
Overall, Monk's cloth is a versatile and durable fabric that is characterized by its unique texture and weave. It is a popular choice for home decor and clothing projects, and is well-suited for upholstery due to its durability. With its soft feel and distinctive diamond pattern, Monk's cloth is a fabric that is both functional and beautiful.
Monk's Cloth
A coarse heavy fabric in 4 X 4 basket weave made originally of worsted and used for monk's habits, but now chiefly of cotton or linen and used for draperies. Quite heavy, due to construction. It is difficult to sew or manipulate as the yarns have a tendency to slide, stretch and fray. May sag in time depending on the compactness of the weave. It can also be made in other basket weaves. Quite rough in texture.