White Sheer "Nainsook" Cotton
First documented in 1790, the term nainsook, such as this White Sheer "Nainsook" Cotton, was said to derive from the Hindi word “nainsukh” which translates as “eye’s delight”. This cotton muslin was typically plain-woven, but could also be striped. Several samples in Ackermann’s Repository show it being used for gowns, shawls and window treatments. Its popularity continued in the Edwardian period. It was woven plain in a variety of weights and levels of sheerness, to suit any lingerie, summer-wear or child’s dress need. We have an original nainsook sample book from this period, where the sheerest is virtually identical to this fabric.
This White Sheer "Nainsook" Cotton is:
- Suited for any gown where fine cotton muslin is required, as well as fine accessories such as caps, aprons, neckerchiefs, handkerchiefs, sleeve flounces and tuckers.
- Suited for anything with white work or embroidery, to include late 18th and early 19th century gowns, as well as children’s clothing, and 19th to early-20th century undergarments.
- White Sheer "Nainsook" Cotton is 100% Cotton, 61 inches wide.
