The name “damask” comes from Damascus, a city made famous in the twelfth century for the beauty of its ornamental silk fabrics, fashioned through techniques based on ancient Chinese weaving methods. Damask weaves are commonly produced today in silk, linen, cotton and blended-fiber fabrics which feature flowers, fruit, and other types of ornamental patterns.
Damask fabric is created when the lines of a satin weave warp thread run in a different direction from that of its base, or weft, forming a pattern that has a reversible positive/negative image. It relies on the play of light to give dimension to the pattern which is subtle and rich at the same time. The damask cloth used in table linens is made on a jacquard loom to produce a fabric that combines a soft, natural feel with performance and durability. The newest designs feature a bolder, more distinct pattern effect with higher contrast, reliably retaining their pattern definition and color after numerous launderings. These superb table linens are magnificent to touch, lovely to look at and have a beautiful drape and luster. A fine damask tablecloth is sure to become a household heirloom.
