Sewing Bed Linen: Measure First, Then Choose Fabric
Bed linen is easiest to sew to the actual measurements of the bed, mattress, duvet, and pillows. Set names such as twin, double, euro, and family vary by country, maker, and retailer, so they cannot replace real measurements.
Choosing fabric
Silk, cotton, linen, calico, chintz, and sateen behave differently in use and care. Check fibre content, weight, feel, care guidance, and the purpose of the set; there is no single best fabric for every situation.
Preparation and measurements
Before cutting, pre-treat or wash fabric as its maker recommends, and test a sample for shrinkage and colourfastness. Measure the duvet, pillows, mattress width, length, and depth, then decide on the sheet type and closure.
Size a duvet cover from the particular duvet, allowing for seams and ease. For a fitted sheet, account for mattress depth and the method of securing it; for a flat sheet, decide on the desired overhang. Make pillowcases from the actual pillow measurements and the chosen envelope or closure style.
Sizes in the archive note
The numbers in the old note are not universal standards. Before buying fabric or cutting, check the labels on your own mattress, duvet, and pillows, and follow the requirements of the selected pattern.
I agree! Our bed is about 2.5 m wide; we had it made specially, and it is very comfortable. Finding a set for it is a real headache, so we have ours sewn to order, but good-quality fabric is difficult to find too. Egyptian cotton has worked best for us so far.