Complimentary insured worldwide shipping · Custom commissions welcome

Fleur de FilHandcrafted Crochet Atelier

Treated natural fibre · Plant fibre

Mercerized Cotton

Cotton treated for lustre and strength — the classic thread of doilies and fine lace.

Difficulty
Intermediate
Category
Fibers

Definition

Mercerisation treats cotton under tension in caustic solution, which straightens the fibres, adds sheen and improves dye uptake.

Overview

The extra smoothness makes fine stitch work legible at thread weight, and the sheen gives lace an almost silk-like finish.

It is less absorbent than untreated cotton, so it is a poor choice for washcloths but ideal for display lace.

Characteristics

  • Silky sheen
  • Stronger than raw cotton
  • Deep colour saturation
  • Less absorbent

Typical uses

  • Doilies and lace
  • Bridal trims
  • Fine flowers
  • Table centres
ShareWhatsAppFacebookPinterestX Email

Related entries

Follow the thread

Natural fibre

CottonCrisp, strong and stitch-defining — the default fibre for flowers, bags and homeware.

Lace format

Doily LaceFlat circular lace worked in rounds from the centre out, finished with a decorative outer edge.

Regional lace tradition

Irish LaceRaised floral motifs worked separately over padding cord, then joined with a fine net of chains and picots.

Tool

Steel Thread HooksTiny 0.5–1.75 mm hooks for thread lace, doilies and jewellery-scale work.

In the atelier

Pieces that use this

Table Runners
Commission something custom

More in Plant fibre

CottonHempJute & RaffiaLinenOrganic Cotton

The Atelier Letter

First looks at new collections

Occasional letters from the atelier: seasonal releases, private commissions and gifting guides. No pricing lists, no daily mail — unsubscribe whenever you like.