All you need to know about plaid: comfort, aesthetics and decoration

Ah, plaid! This decorative and functional accessory has found its way into many homes, and not without reason. At the crossroads of style and practicality, plaid is more than just a piece of fabric: it's an invitation to relaxation and comfort. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about plaids, their origins, materials, features, benefits and much more, which we're delighted to share with you.

1) The origins of plaid :

The term "plaid" comes from Scottish Gaelic, where it originally referred to a large piece of cloth. In the Scottish Highlands, this fabric was not only a blanket, but also a garment worn next to the body. Early plaids were essentially rectangular coats, worn wrapped around the body and held in place by a brooch. It served both as protection from the elements and as a blanket for sleeping at night.

The tartan design, a series of intersecting horizontal and vertical stripes in different colors, has become emblematic of Scottish plaids. Each distinctive pattern often represented a specific clan or region of Scotland.

Over time, as the world began to globalize, the use and meaning of plaid evolved. It has evolved from a traditional Scottish garment to a prized interior design element in many homes around the world. Today, plaid embodies comfort, style and history, but its deep roots in Scottish tradition remain indelible.

 2) The plaid manufacturing process : 

The creation of a plaid is an art that combines ancestral know-how and modern techniques. Traditionally, it all starts with the choice of fibers. Whether wool, cotton, linen, cashmere or other materials, selection is essential to guarantee the quality and durability of the final plaid. Once the fibers have been selected, they are spun.

These threads can be dyed before weaving, according to the desired design, ideally using natural pigments and avoiding chemical substances. Next comes weaving, the crucial stage when the threads are interwoven on a loom to form the plaid fabric. After weaving, the fabric can be brushed to give it a softer texture, a step often used for wool plaids. Finally, the fabric is cut, hemmed or finished with bangs.

The end result is a plaid that reflects both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, a symbol of comfort and warmth ready to be draped over a sofa or wrapped around oneself.

3) The materials that make up a plaid : 

There are many different types of plaids on the market, depending largely on the materials used to make them. These materials influence not only the aesthetic appearance of the plaid, but also its texture, warmth and durability.

1. Wool: Natural and resilient, wool is one of the most traditional materials for plaids. It is prized for its ability to retain heat, making it ideal for cold climates. What's more, its fibrous structure allows the plaid to "breathe", regulating temperature and guaranteeing optimal comfort.

2. Cotton: Lightweight and breathable, cotton is favored for summer plaids or for regions with milder climates. Its soft feel and ease of care make it a popular choice for plaids intended for everyday use. What's more, it is often blended with other fibers to enhance its durability or elasticity.

3. Polyester: Synthetic and versatile, polyester is often used to reproduce the look of other materials at lower cost. It's strong, quick-drying and holds its shape well, making it ideal for low-maintenance plaids. However, it may not offer the same feeling of warmth or "breathability" as natural fibers.

4. Cashmere: Luxurious and soft, cashmere is one of the most prestigious fibers for plaids. Derived from the wool of cashmere goats, it offers unrivalled softness and exceptional warmth despite its lightness. Cashmere plaids are often considered high-end pieces, reflecting elegance and sophistication.

5. Linen: With its rustic, natural look, linen is appreciated for its durability and ability to stay cool to the touch, even in hot weather. Linen plaids are perfect for summer evenings, adding a touch of casual elegance.

4) The different sizes of plaid : 

Although simple in appearance, plaid comes in different sizes for different uses. The size of a throw is often an essential criterion when making a purchase, as it determines its practicality and comfort.

1. Armchair plaids: Generally smaller in size, these plaids average 130x150 cm. Perfect for covering legs or shoulders when seated, they are also excellent for adding a decorative touch to an armchair or small chair.

2. Sofa plaids: Slightly larger, they typically measure 140x200 cm. These plaids are ideal for covering two people sitting on a sofa, or for elegantly draping the sofa when not in use.

3. Bed throws: These vary in size according to the type of bed. For a single bed, the common size is 180x230 cm, while for a double bed it's around 230x250 cm. These dimensions may vary slightly between brands and regions, but are designed to comfortably cover a bed while leaving enough room to drape the sides.

4. Children's plaids: Smaller and often adorned with playful motifs, these plaids generally measure 100x140 cm. They can be adapted to the size of children's beds, or used as extra blankets for outdoor outings.

5. Giant or "oversized" plaids: For those seeking the ultimate in comfort, there are extra-large plaids, often called "oversized", which can measure up to 200x350 cm or more. These plaids are perfect for family get-togethers, outdoor picnics or even for curling up with two or more friends.

5) The plaid, a decorative accessory with multiple functions:

Plaid is more than just a piece of fabric; it plays many roles in our daily lives, evolving according to needs and situations. Its versatility is one of the reasons why it has become a staple in so many homes.

1. Interior design: Beyond its primary function as a blanket, plaid is often used as a decorative element. Draped elegantly over a sofa, chair or the foot of a bed, it adds a touch of color, texture and elegance to any room. Some plaids feature patterns or embroidery that accentuate the overall design of a space.

2. Thermal comfort: On chilly winter evenings or slightly colder summer nights, plaid is the ideal companion for warmth. Depending on the material, it can provide cozy warmth or simply a light extra layer against the cold.

3. A companion for relaxation and well-being: The simple act of wrapping yourself in a soft plaid evokes a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Whether reading a book, watching a film or sipping a cup of tea, plaid is synonymous with peaceful moments.

4. Furniture protection: plaids can also be used to protect sofas or chairs from stains, pet hair or daily wear and tear. An easy-to-wash plaid placed over a sofa can extend the life of the furniture while making it easier to care for.

5. Personalization: With the rise of personalized objects, it has become commonplace to see plaids embroidered or embellished with a special message or label. Whether it's for a special event or simply to reflect an individual's personality, a personalized plaid is a much appreciated and memorable gift. It's also a great way to please customers or employees, and many companies, guest houses or communications agencies regularly order them.

 6) How to integrate plaid into your decor: 

Adding plaid to a room's decor can bring warmth, texture and color. Much more than a simple blanket, it's a versatile decorating accessory that, when used judiciously, can transform a space. Here are a few tips for incorporating plaid into your interior.

1. On a sofa or armchair: drape your plaid diagonally over one of the armrests, let it fall carelessly or roll it into a ball. The choice of method depends on the style you want: structured or casual. For a cocooning atmosphere, choose a soft, fluffy plaid. Plaid makes an excellent sofa throw.

2. At the foot of the bed: A throw plaid adds a finishing touch to the bedroom. Choose a contrasting plaid to add a pop of color, or tone-on-tone for a clean look.

3. As a table throw: For a coffee table or casual dining area, plaid can serve as an impromptu tablecloth, adding texture and rustic charm.

4. On a wall: For the more daring, a colorful or patterned plaid can be hung on the wall as a piece of textile art. It's a great way to add color without committing to a mural.

5. In a basket: Roll or fold several plaids and place them in a decorative basket near your sofa or fireplace. It's both aesthetically pleasing and practical for chilly evenings.

6. Play with patterns: If you have a neutral interior, a patterned plaid can be the perfect element to break up the monotony. Whether it's stripes, checks or ethnic patterns, a well-chosen plaid can become the centerpiece of your space.

To find out more, read our article on how to decorate your home with plaid.

7) How to choose the right throw?

Selecting the ideal plaid may seem straightforward, but there are many factors to consider when making an informed choice. Whether you're looking for comfort, aesthetics or both, here are some key elements to consider when making your purchase.

1. Intended use: Think about the main use of your plaid. Is it for thermal comfort, decoration, or both? For cocooning, opt for soft, warm materials like cashmere or thick wool. For decorative use, patterns, colors and textures become essential. To find out which plaid to choose according to the season, we invite you to read our article "a plaid for every season".

2. Material: As we've already discussed, the plaid's material greatly influences its feel and function. Cotton and linen are perfect for warmer climates, while wool and cashmere are ideal for keeping warm.

3. Size: Again depending on use, choose the appropriate size. A throw for a sofa will be different from one for a bed or armchair. Make sure its size is proportional to the space in which it will be placed.

4. Color and pattern: Consider the color palette of your space. Plaid can either harmonize with your existing decor, or provide an interesting contrast. Patterns, meanwhile, can add an extra dimension to your space, especially if the rest of the room is rather neutral.

5. Care: Some plaids require special care. Look at the care instructions before you buy, especially if you want something that's easy to clean and resistant to multiple washings.

6. Durability: If you're considering a long-term investment, opt for high-quality plaids made from sturdy materials. They may cost a little more up front, but their longevity and resistance to wear are well worth it.

7. Budget: Finally, set yourself a budget. There's a wide range of plaids on the market, from economical to luxurious options. Determine what you're willing to spend before you start your search.

On this subject, find a more detailed guide here on how to choose the right plaid.

8) Care for your plaid: 

Whether as a decorative accessory or a cozy companion on cool evenings, a throw requires regular care to keep it looking and feeling soft. Follow these simple tips to prolong its life:

1. Follow the instructions: First of all, check the care label on your plaid. The instructions are specific to the material and will tell you whether it can be machine-washed, at what temperature, or whether it needs to be dry-cleaned.

2. Washing: For machine-washable plaids, use a delicate cycle with cold water to avoid shrinkage or fading. For wool or cashmere plaids, consider hand-washing with a mild detergent.

3. Drying: Avoid using a tumble dryer, especially for delicate plaids. Instead, lay them flat in the open air, away from direct sunlight which could discolor the fabric.

4. Storage: If you're storing your plaid for a season, make sure it's thoroughly dry to avoid mildew. Use breathable cotton covers rather than plastic bags.

5. Occasional treatments: To keep your rug fresh, air it out from time to time, away from direct sunlight. If your rug is made of wool, a soft brush can help restore its original texture.

9) Bercail plaids, comfort and softness for your home

When you want to make your home cosier and warmer, there's nothing better than a beautiful plaid to achieve this. As a brand specializing in high-quality plaids, Bercail knows just how much a plaid can make the difference in a room.

Whether you're looking for a sofa throw to snuggle up with during your Netflix nights, a bed throw to add a touch of luxury to your bedroom, or a plaid for your outdoor outings, Bercail has just what you're looking for.

High-quality materials

At Bercail, we don't compromise on the quality of our plaids. We select only the best materials for our products, and they are always Oeko-Tex certified. We always look for materials that are soft to the touch, resistant and durable over time.

We're also concerned about the environment, which is why we favor ecological and sustainable raw materials, such as linen for some of our models, and why we've banned plastic.

Elegant, timeless design

Beyond the quality of our raw materials, we also attach great importance to the design of our plaids. We want to offer products that are both elegant and timeless, that will stand the test of time without losing their charm. All while remaining affordable.

We also offer plain plaids, for those who prefer a more sober, minimalist look.

Personalize your plaids with embroidery

At Bercail, we know that every customer is unique. That's why we offer the possibility of personalizing our plaids with custom embroidery. Whether it's your name, your company logo or a custom design, we can create a plaid that's just like you.

Throws for all seasons and all occasions

Everyone has different needs and sensations when it comes to warmth. That's why we've designed plaids for all seasons. Light linen for summer, like the Arthur and Oscar plaids, fine cotton for spring and autumn, like the Gabriel and Zadig plaids, and very thick cotton plaids for winter, like the Louis and Marceau plaids.

Whether you're looking for a plaid to warm you up on a winter's evening in front of the fireplace, to add a touch of color to your sofa, to decorate your bedroom or to accompany you on your outdoor outings, Bercail has the model for you. We offer a wide variety of plaids for every occasion.