Chintz
Chintz overview
Chintz is a cotton fabric, usually glazed and printed with flowers and designs of different colors. Chintz is sewn using a plain weave.
Several types of glaze are used to give the fabric a polished look. The wax and starch glaze produced by friction or glazing calendars will wash out, whilst the resin glaze finish is more resistant and will withstand dry-cleaning. Chintz also comes semi-glazed, or unglazed, in which case it is called 'cretonne."
Chintz Characteristics
The term "chintz" is derived from the Indian word "chint," meaning "broad, gaudily printed fabric." Chintz is covered in bright, colorful figures, large flower designs, birds and other designs. It also comes in plain colors, with several different types of glaze. Modern chintz usually consists of bright patterns printed on a light background. Both flower motifs and pictorial scenes are depicted in modern prints.
Chintz History
Chintz was originally a stained or painted calico produced in India and popularly used in the design of draperies, quilts and bedcovers. During the seventeenth and eighteenth century, Chintz was brought from India to Europe by English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian adventurers, who discovered the bright fabric in India and brought it back on their travels. The Europeans originally began by reproducing Indian designs, and later added their own innovative patterns. A well known Chintz make was "toile de Jouy" which was manufactured in Jouy, France between 1700 and 1843.
What is Chintz used for?
Chintz is used in the design of draperies, slipcovers, dresses, blouses and sportswear. Chintz is also the term used for pottery covered with a dense, all over pattern of flowers or objects, similar to those used on chintz fabric.
Chintz care instructions
Dry clean
Warm iron
Press on wrong side