Contrasting colors used to increase interest in room color themes.

Small objects such as vases, plants, books, lamps and other decorative items.

Made up of various combinations of sheets, spreads, comforters, shams and bed skirts combined for sale in groups. See Bed In a Bag and Comforter Set.

This is a specific type of Bedding Ensemble that typically includes a comforter, complete set of sheets, pillow shams and a bed skirt.

We stock conventional bedding and sheets in standard sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King. We stock waterbed sheets in Western (California) King, Queen & Super Single. An eastern king bed is also known as a dual king bed since sometimes two twin beds are placed side by side to make one king bed. We do not stock extra long fulls or queens. Basic mattress dimensions are (height & drop varies with mattress style):

Conventional Beds. Depths of sheets range from 15” to 18”

• Twin 38x75”
• Extra long twin 38x80” We do not carry
• Full 54x75”
• Queen 60x80”
• King 78x80”

Waterbed Sheet Sets

• Super Single 48x84”
• Queen 60x84”
• King 72x84”

Bedspreads cover the entire bed by folding over the bed pillows and hanging all the way to the floor on a standard bed. Standard beds have a drop of 21” from the top of the bed to the floor and 14” from the top of thebox spring to the floor. If a bed is higher than a standard bed, then a longer dust ruffle can be added to finish the look of the ensemble. Bedspreads tend to be not quite as thick and fluffy as Comforters. Many bedspreads have coordinating shams to decorate the head of the bed, although they are not a necessity since bedspreads do cover the bed pillows.

A long pillow or cushion which forms an integral part of a chair, sofa or bed. Bolster pillow’s are usually round, but could come in a variety of shapes. The size can range from 1 foot in length to the entire width of the bed.

This is an accent pillow that is approximately 12 1/2” x 16” used as an accent on the bed.

A cotton, wool, silk, or rayon yarn which has a pile protruding all around at right angles simulating a caterpillar (which is where the name chenille comes from. “Chenille” is French for caterpillar)

A process for separating the long, choice, desirable fibers of the same length from the short immature fiber, resulting in stronger, smoother cotton yarn. The combing process removes the short fibers and any debris that may be in the fiber when it was in the field. A cleaner, more uniform and lustrous yarn results. Combed cotton has been processed to remove shorter cotton strands which might later cause the sheet to pill; therefore, combed cotton products are higher quality. (Some companies buy the combed out shorter strands and make yarns out of them of obvious lesser quality).

A thick bed covering made of two layers of cloth containing a filling. Comforters are almost always filled with polyester while some more costly varieties are filled with down. Comforters cover the mattress but not the foundation. Since the top and bottom fabrics of a comforter are quilted together with a filling material in between, they are usually fluffier and thicker than a bedspread or coverlet. Most often, a comforter is used with a dust ruffle to decoratively cover the foundation and hang to the floor. Comforters are not long enough to cover bed pillows therefore many people use decorative shams with them.

A type of bedding ensemble. A comforter set includes the comforter, a 14-15” drop dust ruffle and shams. Twin sets usually include only one sham. Full & Queen sets usually include two shams. King comforter sets include two king-size shams or sometimes 3 standard shams.

Cotton is a soft, natural fiber obtained from the seedpod of the cotton plant, which is valued in bedding for its soft and breathable nature. Two specific types of high quality cotton fibers are Egyptian and Pima. Specifically, Egyptian cotton is grown in the Nile Delta of Egypt and is known for its long staple fiber, high quality and absorbency. Pima cotton is another type of high quality fiber grown in the U.S. A longer staple means less cotton fibers are needed in the weave; therefore, there are less ends to fray in the fabric so they are less likely to pill and are generally stronger than other short staple cottons. High-quality sheets are produced from both Egyptian and Pima cottons.

Cotton is the single most popular fabric purchased by American consumers today. Cotton’s popularity stems from the fiber’s inherent benefits, such as tactile comfort (that is, a sensation of softness when touching cotton fabric), and an unsurpassed ability to accept and retain color. Cotton is an all season fiber—cool in the summer, insulating in the winter. It ‘breathes’ and keeps body moisture away from the skin and it launders beautifully. There are four primary cotton varieties. The types of cotton are named after the region in which they were first grown.

• American Upland comprises 80% of the world’s production. It is a short, sturdy fiber that is durable but coarser to the touch. Similar strains are grown in Malaysia, Peru, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar.
• Egyptian has a longer staple than all other varieties. It can be spun into a finer texture thread and woven into a softer, more lustrous fabric. All of our top quality sheet sets and premium duvets are made of Egyptian cotton.
• Pima is an American version of Egyptian cotton, but with a shorter staple (fiber). Originally cultivated in Arizona by the Pima Indians.
• Sea Island is very silky and refined. It is grown exclusively in the West Indies and the Islands of Carolinas and Georgia Coast. It is also a long staple cotton variety.

Short staple cotton fibers generally range from 1/4 to 1/2 inch, while the longer staple fibers range from 1.5 to 2 inches in length. Pima and Sea Island cottons are long staple cottons, while the Egyptian is an extra long staple cotton.

This blend offers the convenience of ‘wash and wear’ and is less expensive than 100% cotton products. Blends do not ‘breathe’ or absorb moisture as natural fibers do. They are also not as comfortable to the skin. Some short staple cottons are treated in order to add polyester to the surface of the yarn.

Coverlets fit a bed much like a comforter in that they cover the top of the bed only. Coverlets do not cover the bed pillows and do not hang to the floor, most often they are used in conjunction with a dust ruffle and shams. Lightweight like a quilt, coverlets are used in warm climates in the summer usually instead of a comforter or bedspread. During the cooler months, coverlets are folded on a quilt rack or placed at the end of the bed.

One of the oldest and most popular staple cloths to be found today. Damask belongs to the fabrics that include brocades, brocatelles, and jacquards. The uniqueness of damask lies in the raised patterns woven into it. Brocade is similar but of a heavier weight. The word is derived from Damascus, the capitol of Syria. The cloth is made from cotton, linen, wool, worsted, silk, rayon, etc. which is reversible. Damask fabrics are very durable, they shed dirt, launder well, and hold a high luster. Furniture Row Linens buys much of their damask fabrics from Europe where the quality is excellent and the weavers are experts.

Daybeds are twin beds turned sideways. The term is derived from people using a special frame to make a twin bed dual purpose, both as a bed and for use as a couch. Daybed sets usually include a twin comforter, a daybed bed skirt (one long side and 2 short with split corners for the bed frame) and either three standard shams for the back of the daybed or two king shams. Regular twin sheets will fit a daybed. The main differences between a daybed and a twinbed are the bed skirt and the direction of the comforter since the bed is turned 90 degrees from a regular twin bed placement.

A term used to describe how deep (measured from top to bottom) any style of mattress is. This dimension is important to know when purchasing sheet sets because the sheet pocket must be large enough to accommodate the mattress height.

The term drop usually refers to the distance from the top of the foundation to the floor. The drop measurement is important when considering the purchase of a bedspread to be sure it will fall to the floor. The standard drop on a dust ruffle is 14-15”, most comforter sets include a dust ruffle with a 14 -15” drop. If the drop on a bed is higher than 15”, then a longer dust ruffle can be layered underneath to hang/drop all the way to the floor.

A dust ruffle (also known as a bed skirt) is used when the foundation of the bed shows or when the top of the bed cover, for example a bedspread or comforter, does not extend all the way to the floor. Dust ruffles fit under the mattress on top of the foundation and decorate with fabric to the floor. Typical beds need a 14-15” dust ruffle, but taller beds could require an 18” or even 22” dust ruffle. Many four-poster beds take a 22” dust ruffle. To measure for a dust ruffle, measure from the top of the box spring to the floor. If a bed measures 17” for a dust ruffle, an 18” dust ruffle can be pinned to fit exactly. Most dust ruffles are either ruffled or tailored.

Duvet covers are used to decorate and protect down-filled comforters and blankets. They work like giant pillow cases and will have button, tie or zipper enclosures at one end. The covers protect your cozy down comforter and can be removed easily for washing. This feature eliminates the need to launder the comforter frequently! Europeans use duvet covers instead of top flat sheets so they prefer a higher thread count for a softer duvet. Higher thread count duvet covers also help hold any down that might escape from the comforter. We recommend buying two duvet covers and change them for a new look every week or month.

A finishing process using resin, which gives the fabric a smooth appearance. Easy care finishes are also achieved by chemically treating the yarn and then coating it with polyester.

Egyptian cotton is an extra long staple cotton, valued for its softness and texture. Longer staple fibers produce a softer fabric and a stronger fabric that is less likely to pill. Egyptian cotton also is known for its high absorbency which makes a better quality towel.

Direct or banded embroideries’, attached or banded lace, painted color or other kinds of fabric appliqués, braids or a combination of these decorative elements.

A pressure process using engraved rollers and heat application to produce raised or relief patterns on the surface of the fabric.

The art or process of forming decorative designs with hand or machine needlework.

Often called “Euro Shams”, they are square in shape, usually 26”x26” and finished on all sides. “Euros” offer a great backdrop for the entire bedding ensemble and a good cushion for sitting up in bed.

Feather beds are used on top of the mattress to add comfort, warmth and volume. Visually a feather bed topping a mattress adds a “poof” factor to the look of the linens.

The fitted sheet has elastic around the corners to “hug” the mattress. The fitted sheet protects the mattress from soiling by body oils and should be washed frequently. It is best to have a high quality mattress pad over the bed for added comfort and protection. Decoratively, the fitted sheet adds a base layer of color to your linen ensemble.

A plain-weave cloth with a plush texture.

Pillows that are described as flanged include a decorative band of fabric around the pillow that is more straight, or tailored in appearance.

The flat sheet adds another layer to the bed. The flat sheet usually lies on top of the fitted sheet and under the comforter, quilt, coverlet or duvet. You sleep under the flat sheet, therefore keeping clean the comforter, quilt, coverlet or duvet. In much of Europe and other parts of the world, a flat sheet is not used, but instead the duvet cover is washed more often like a flat sheet.

A decorative stitching along the stitching lines of hems and borders to create an open weave pattern.

This is a special type of weave done on a special loom that was named after its’ French designer. This special loom provides versatility in designs and permits individual control of each of the warp (lengthwise) yarns. Thus,fabrics of intricate design and complexity can be made. Brocade and damask are types of jacquard woven fabrics.

A wet finishing process for cotton yarn or fabric, increasing cotton’s luster and strength allowing the fabric to retain dyes more readily.

Cotton sheeting fabric with thread count of less than 180 threads per square inch.

Usually made with combed yarns, this cotton fabric is the most common weave for bed sheets. This fine, closely woven cloth is variously finished for clothing, sheeting and industrial uses. Percale sheets require a minimum thread count of 180, and are often seen in 200 to 300 and higher thread counts. Customers looking for a crisp sheet will prefer the percale weave over the sateen weave. Percale sheets are much less likely to pillthan other weaves of sheets, especially in higher thread counts. They are great to use in warmer months due to the cooling effect of the fabric.

Occurs as a result of fibers loosening from the fabric surface to form matted fiber balls, (feels like sand in the bed.) Lower quality short fiber staple yarn is more prone to pilling than higher quality long staple yarn.

Pillows are used in the home for comfort and decoration. Bed pillows are not one type fits all, they should be fitted by fill and firmness level for the different needs of individual sleepers. Bed pillows are made with many different types of fill, such as plush fiber, down, latex and memory foam. Suggested fill levels for different “kinds” of sleepers are:

Bed Pillows Available in King, Queen & Standard Sizes

• Soft fill/firmness: great for stomach sleepers.
• Medium fill/firmness: great for back sleepers who need more support.
• Firm fill: best for side sleepers.

Decorative Bed Pillows

• Boudoir / Oblong: rectangular pillows of various sizes.
• 18” square: usually corded, fringed, or plain knife edge.
• 26” square: also called a Euro Pillow, includes an internal pillow and an external sham (just the covering). Most commonly used for decorative effect and as a reading pillow in combination with regular pillows on the bed.
• Neckroll: Small cylindrical decorative throw pillows
• Bolster: A long pillow or cushion that forms an integral part of a chair, sofa or bed.

These often match or coordinate with the sheets in a set. Standard bed pillows slip into one side of the case. Pillow cases are important in that they protect the pillow that you sleep on from oils and dirt. Pillow cases should be washed often to avoid dirt and oil build up that can be unhealthy for the skin. In addition, if a pillow is not washable, then it should be replaced at least once a year.

A pillow sham is finished on all sides and has a closure in the back to completely conceal the standard bed pillow it is covering.

Pima cotton is a long staple cotton from the original Egyptian cotton variety, it was originally grown by the Pima Indians in the Southwestern United States. It is known to be one of the finer cotton materials because of its long staple.

A manmade synthetic fiber, valued for its longevity and ease of care. Fabrics made of polyester wrinkle less than a cotton fabric and do not typically shrink like cotton. Such fabrics do not breathe like cotton, however, and are not typically as soft as cotton, therefore they are not as comfortable to the skin.

Patchwork quilts are made by sewing different fabrics together to make a design. Patterns for hand sewing the pieces of fabric together are often handed down over generations. Quilts are usually smaller than comforters and typically must be used with a dust ruffle and shams if used as a top of the bed covering. Typically, due to their lightweight nature, quilts are used as bed coverings in the summer, much like coverlets. Quilts are often displayed as wall hangings to show off the handwork involved.

A smooth, durable, lustrous fabric usually made of cotton in satin weave which makes for a smoother finish than traditional weaves. Sateen fabric on a comforter creates a shiny finish, while sheets with a sateen weave are silky smooth and soft. Some people feel sateen sheets are great to use in the cooler months because of the greater “warmth” of the fabric. Customers looking for a crisp sheet (especially those who iron their sheets) will prefer the percale weave.

Shams are decorative pillow covers. Usually ruffled or flanged, shams are used as extra pillows on beds to hide the standard bed pillows and to coordinate with a bedspread or comforter. Sized as follows:

• Standard: 20x26” (use standard or queen bed pillow)
• Queen: 20” x 30” (use queen bed pillow)
• King: 20x36” (use king bed pillow)
• Euro: 26x26” (use square Euro or reading pillow)

Sheet sets include the flat/top sheet, fitted/bottom sheet and pillowcases. A twin-size set includes one pillowcase; full and queen include two standard/queen pillowcases; and a king set includes two king-size pillowcases.

The number of yarns per square inch in a woven fabric. The higher the count, typically the finer the fabric.* With each higher thread count, the weave of the sheet is tighter, making the sheet smoother, softer and stronger. A thread count of 180 is the minimum most consumers look for in a comfortable sheet set. Moving up to a 200 count sheet, a higher quality linen, is usually not that much more costly and is noted to be a softer sheet. The 250 thread count sheet is wonderfully soft and durable, 300 and above are softer and more luxurious. Higher count sheets are much less likely to pill, (those little round balls that are uncomfortable to sleep on.)

*NOTE: The quality of the cotton and the finishing process after weaving is more important to the soft hand and durability of a fabric than a higher thread count. See our article on “How To Buy Quality Linens” for more information on this important subject.

Throws are taken literally, meaning you can actually “throw” this on the bed to bring together some of the accent colors used in the sheets, top of bed covers, and pillows. Throws are great for wrapping yourself up in on a cold day.

A very durable striped linen or cotton fabric with a twill weave. This closely woven material is primarily used for mattress and pillow coverings.

Lengthwise, the vertical yarns of a fabric in which a number of ends are arranged lengthwise on a beam.

Widthwise, yarn applied to the warp in a certain pattern during weaving to achieve a predetermined pattern. Also known as “filling yarns” in America.

Yarns are dyed in a bundle or package before weaving into fabrics like ginghams, stripes and plaids. These designs are known as ‘color-woven’ fabrics.