Double-Sheared Flannel vs. Single Flannel Sheets

Nap

• Nap is created by running fabric through rollers covered with tiny wires that pick up little loops of thread and pull them out from the fabric. The end result is a thicker, softer fabric. Napped fabrics also trap air within their loose threads, making them warmer. Double-sheared flannel is napped on both sides, while single-sheared flannel is only napped on one side.

Shearing and Brushing

• To improve softness, some napped flannels are sheared. Shearing is done by a machine similar to a lawn mower. It has blades of varying heights and cuts the napped threads to create a pile. Flannel napped on one side is only sheared on one side -- single-sheared -- and flannel napped on both sides is sheared on both sides -- double-sheared. Sheared flannel is then brushed to pull any loose threads out of the pile and to ensure the pile is standing up.

Comparison

• Double-sheared flannel is also double-napped, making it thicker and warmer than single-sheared flannel. Shearing makes the fabric softer, but if you only sleep on one side of the sheets, it may not matter to you if both sides are soft. They are comparable in price, with variations depending on where you buy and from whom. Double-sheared flannel can be harder to find than single-sheared flannel. According to Consumer Reviews, a website compiling and analyzing consumer and expert product reviews, quality flannel sheets should have a weight of 4 ounces per square yard, regardless of napping and shearing. Flannel is durable in general and can withstand normal wear and tear.

About Flannel

• Flannel was traditionally made from wool, but is now made from cotton or synthetic fibers as well. Flannel is made in either a twill or plain weave. According to the University of Arizona, French flannel is a finely woven twill and only napped on one side. Suede flannel, on the other hand, is napped on both sides and then the nap is flattened, to create a finely woven texture. Flannel was first produced in the 17th century in Wales. Weavers of the time noted how much warmer wool was when they napped it.