This month, buyers visiting our site searched strikingly often for fabrics with relief. Search terms such as "diamond pintuck", "jacquard", "corduroy" and "waffle" came up again and again, sometimes combined with a colour such as burgundy. It says something about the market: bedding is increasingly bought for its look and feel, not just for size and colour. This article shows how to use texture as a selling point.
Why texture is hard to sell online, yet so strong in store
A woven pattern or a pintuck often looks flat in a photo. Only in the hand does the customer notice the depth of the relief, the density of the fabric and the drape. That is a challenge for webshops, but an opportunity for physical stores. A customer who touches a textured duvet cover makes up their mind faster than one who only sees an image.
The same applies to hotels. Texture gives a bed a neat, calm look without extra styling. A smooth, plain fabric shows creases and signs of use sooner. A fabric with relief is often more forgiving.
Jacquard, pintuck, corduroy and waffle: what is the difference?
Buyers often use these terms interchangeably, even though the constructions differ. If you know exactly what you are buying, you can explain it better to your customer.
Jacquard is a woven pattern. The design is part of the weave itself rather than a print. It is durable in use and gives a rich, almost tonal look.
Pintuck consists of narrow, stitched pleats that create a play of lines on the fabric. With diamond pintuck, those lines form diamonds. This creates a strong, recognisable pattern, on duvet covers as well as on quilts and pillowcases.
Corduroy has a ribbed surface with a soft, warm look. Corduroy rib in deep colours such as burgundy suits the autumn and winter collection and a cosy, homely style.
Waffle has a three-dimensional cell structure. We see it mainly in throws, towels and lighter covers. Waffle is a logical link between bedding and bath textiles.
Quilts and duvets with diamond pintuck: a feeling of quality
A quilt with diamond pintuck is quickly perceived as high quality. The diamond pattern gives the product a distinct character and makes it an eye-catcher in a bed display. Used as a bedspread or a layer over the bed, a quilt also works as a transitional product between seasons. The same goes for corduroy quilts, which draw extra attention in the colder months.
With textured products, always look closely at the finish. Are the seams tight? Does the pattern hold up after washing? Does the fabric keep its shape? Check this for each item and assess a sample before buying a full collection.
How to use texture effectively on the shelf
Texture sells best when customers can touch it and when the display makes clear why the product is different. A few practical points:
- Display textured items at eye level and leave a corner of the product open so customers can feel the relief.
- Use side lighting or a lamp in the display: shadows accentuate pintuck and jacquard.
- Combine texture with plain items in the same colour family to keep the overall look calm.
- In your webshop, add close-up photos of the surface and describe the feel of the fabric in plain words.
- State the care instructions for every item; customers hesitate more over textured fabrics if they don't know whether they are washable.
- Record the composition and any certifications for each item, together with the certificate.
- Offer texture in a limited number of colours to keep the collection easy to navigate.
If you want to extend your range of duvet covers with texture, first take a look at our duvet covers for retailers and compare the options on fabric construction and look.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between jacquard and pintuck?
Jacquard is a pattern woven into the fabric. Pintuck consists of stitched pleats that form a line or diamond pattern. Both create a visual effect, but the construction and feel differ.
Are textured fabrics suitable for hotels?
They can be, provided the fabric can withstand professional laundering. Ask for the washing recommendations for each item and test a sample in your own laundry process before buying a larger quantity.
How do I present texture in a webshop?
Use close-ups, a photo in side lighting and a clear description of the feel and care. This replaces part of the hands-on experience of the store.
Would you like to add textured items to your range, or learn more about the options first? As a retailer, webshop or hotel buyer, request a business account with MPS Textiles. We are happy to help you plan.
