Table Linen - Tablecloths

History of Damask Tablecloths

Damask is a style of weaving where two types of thread are used to create a pattern that can be seen on both sides of a material. The two types of thread are known as weft yarn and warp yarn. Warp yarn is made using lengthways strands and is therefore a smoother thread. Weft yarn is made using sideways, shorter fibre strands and therefore has a more fluffy appearance. This means that patterns made from weft and warp yarns of the same colour can be used to create damask tablecloths with a beautiful finish and effect. It is for this reason that damask has been a popular choice for tablecloths for hundreds of years.

The name Damask is taken from the believed birthplace of the weaving technique in Damascus, Syria.

Damasks are mainly associated with cotton, especially for tablecloths, but in reality damasks are woven in many forms of material including wool, linen and silk.

The most common patterns for damask weaves show flowers and fruits. Rose damask is a very popular pattern for tablecloths.

The use of modern synthetic materials and mixes, such as polyester, spun polyester and Polycotton are now used widely for the creation of damask tablecloths.

The use of the two types of yarn, weft and warp give an effect known as iridescence. And has led to the huge popularity of damask tablecloths over hundreds of years.