Most commonly used in the making of children’s clothing, batiste is a lightweight, wonderfully soft, usually opaque fabric. The word batiste comes from Jean Baptiste who was a fine linen weaver in France during the fifteenth century. This fabric is made from natural fibers such as cotton and wool which gives it the soft hand and breathability so important in clothing. While it may appear to be a delicate fabric, it is often machine washable and dryable depending on other fabric and trims that it has been combined with.
Batiste is normally an opaque fabric but sheer batiste is also available. This is a very versatile fabric with many uses:
- Using batiste as a backing for blankets and quilts will give you a soft and comfy cover up.
- Sheer batiste can be used in the making of curtains.
- Opaque batiste makes a nice lining for sheer dresses, nightgowns, pajamas and even lingerie. The natural cotton fibers make clothing cool and breathable.
- Using sheer batiste as a table topper for special events will create an elegant look.
- Used as a lining for draperies, batiste will help create a beautiful drape in your window treatments.
- Fancy embroidered batiste makes a beautiful christening gown for a baby and also works beautifully as clothing for children acting as attendants at a wedding.
The uses for this soft and lightweight fabric are many. It is up to you to decide how you will use batiste in your home.