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Cretonne

Cretonne was originally a strong, white fabric with a hempen warp and linen weft.

The word is sometimes said to be derived from Créton, a village in Mesnils-sur-Iton (Eure, Upper Normandy) where the manufacture of linen was carried on; some other serious sources mention that the cretonne was invented by Paul Creton, an inhabitant of Vimoutiers in the Pays d'Auge, Lower Normandy, France, a village very active in the textile industry in the past centuries.

The word is now applied to a strong, printed cotton cloth, which is stouter than chintz but used for very much the same purposes. It is usually unglazed and may be printed on both sides, and even with different patterns. Frequently, cretonne has a fancy woven pattern of some kind, which is modified by the printed design. It is sometimes made with a weft of cotton waste.

History

The term "cretonne" originated from Creton, a village in Normandy, France, where similar fabrics were historically produced. The fabric gained prominence in 17th-18th century Europe, during the expansion of printed cotton textiles. It especially gained popularity in France and England as part of the broader textile trade involving printed calicoes and furnishing fabrics. By the 19th century, cretonne was widely manufactured industrially and exported globally. Its development is closely tied to advances in textile printing technologies and the growth of cotton imports from colonial trade networks.

Types of Cretonne

There are several types of cretonne fabric, each with unique characteristics and uses:

  • Printed Cretonne: The most common type of cretonne, featuring colorful prints and patterns on a solid background. It is often used for upholstery, drapery, and decorative home furnishings.
  • Woven Cretonne: Woven cretonne is characterized by its textured surface, created by using different colored yarns in the weaving process. It adds depth and visual interest to upholstered furniture and accessories.
  • Embroidered Cretonne: Embroidered cretonne features intricate designs or motifs stitched onto the fabric. This type of cretonne is highly valued for its artistic and decorative appeal, often used for cushions, pillows, and curtains.
  • Water-Repellent Cretonne: Water-repellent cretonne is treated with a special finish that makes it resistant to water and stains. It is commonly used for outdoor cushions, awnings, and other applications where protection from moisture is required.

References

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