description Matelassé Overview
Matelassé is a weaving technique that creates a fabric with a raised, blistered, or quilted appearance, traditionally made on jacquard looms to produce complex patterns without actual padding. The name derives from the French word "matelasser" meaning "to quilt" or "to pad," reflecting the fabric's characteristic padded look despite being woven as a single layer. First developed in France, matelassé fabric is used in high-end applications including evening wear, luxury bedding, and upholstery, with Marseilles becoming particularly renowned for producing fine white cotton matelassé bedspreads known as "Marseille cloth" during the 18th and 19th centuries.
help Matelassé FAQ
What is matelassé fabric?
Matelassé is a woven textile with a raised, blistered, or quilted appearance. The effect is traditionally created on a jacquard loom rather than by inserting separate padding.
How is the raised pattern in matelassé made?
The loom controls complex warp and weft structures to create areas that rise and contract differently. Washing or finishing can emphasize the relief, producing a quilt-like surface without conventional batting.
Is matelassé actually quilted?
Not usually, because the raised surface is built into the weave rather than stitched through layers of fabric. The name comes from the French verb matelasser, meaning to quilt or pad.
What is matelassé used for?
Matelassé is often used for bedspreads, coverlets, decorative pillows, robes, jackets, and other textured home or fashion items. Its relief pattern gives a three-dimensional appearance while keeping the construction relatively light.
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