Zweigart and Wichelt are two of the largest and most widely recognized linen manufacturers for needlework fabrics, primarily differing in the characteristic drape of their fabrics and Zweigart's specific naming conventions for various fabric counts.
Both companies are prominent suppliers, offering a wide range of fabric counts and colors that are readily available to stitchers.
Key Differences Between Zweigart and Wichelt
While both manufacturers produce high-quality linen suitable for cross-stitch and other needlework, their fabrics have distinct characteristics:
| Feature | Zweigart Linen | Wichelt Linen |
|---|---|---|
| Drape/Feel | Generally known for a softer drape and feel. | Tends to have a firmer, slightly stiffer drape. |
| Naming | Uses specific names for certain counts: | Does not typically use specific names for counts in the same way. |
| - Cashel linen: 28-count, 100% linen | (Generic count designations like 28-count, 32-count, etc.) | |
| - Belfast linen: 32-count, 100% linen | ||
| Availability | Widely available in many counts and colors. | Widely available in many counts and colors. |
Understanding Zweigart's Naming Conventions
Zweigart's practice of naming their linen counts helps stitchers easily identify the fabric's threads per inch (TPI). For example:
- Cashel Linen: This refers specifically to Zweigart's 28-count 100% linen fabric. It means there are 28 threads per inch.
- Belfast Linen: This designates Zweigart's 32-count 100% linen fabric, indicating 32 threads per inch.
This consistent naming system allows crafters to quickly select the desired fabric density from Zweigart's offerings. While Wichelt produces various counts, they are typically identified by their numerical count rather than specific names.
Ultimately, the choice between Zweigart and Wichelt often comes down to personal preference regarding fabric drape and texture for a specific project.
