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Glossary of Terms

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  Benefits of Bamboo Fabric
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Balinese: From, or in the style of the Indonesian island of Bali. Tropical.

Bamboo: The latest of the bio fibers, Bamboo (rayon of bamboo) fiber comes from the cellulose of bamboo plants. It is a very soft yarn that blends well with other fibers. Bamboo is the most absorbent and quickest drying of this fiber group. It also has natural anti bacterial properties - keeping bacteria from forming. The bamboo used is an easily renewable crop and not taken from the wild. Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on earth.

Batik: Originally, a hand dyeing process using wax to create intricate patterns. A print in the ethnic style of batik work.

Battenburg: An intricate form of flat, cutwork lace.

Batting: Synthetic or natural filling in a quilted piece or pillow.

Bed Cap: A coverlet with squared, fitted corners at the foot.

Bedskirt: Fabric used to cover the area from bottom of mattress to floor. May be tailored (straight fabric, with or without pleats) or gathered. "Drop" refers to the length of the fabric from mattress bottom to hem. Puddling occurs when a longer drop (usually 18" plus) is used that causes the fabric to bunch at floor level.

Bedspread: A (usually) unlined covering for the bed that reaches completely to the floor and has additional length at top to fold over bed pillows.

Bias: Fabric cut at an angle to enhance the drape and curve appeal.

Biofiber: Any yarns of a family made from plant cellulose that is treated chemically to produce monofilament fibers (rayon, tencel, modal, etc.).

Bistro: A charming little café, preferably with a view of the Seine.

Bohemian: Of the eastern European region of Bohemia, but more importantly - having a wild, carefree gypsy nature and love of life.

Bouclé: Fabric woven of a curled yarn, for a textured, "Chanel" effect.

Brocade: A jacquard style weave in which some thicker yarns are used for a thicker, tapestry or chenille surface in some areas.

Brocante: An antique fair or flea market (French).

Brushed Cotton: Cotton fibers are brushed after weaving, for a soft, peached feel.

Burn-Out: A process of printing which uses chemicals, rather than color, to burn out or dissolve away one fiber in a sized cloth. Purpose is to achieve a sheer lacy & heavy design. Also used to obtain eyelets or other type holes in a fabric.