Expert: Angela - 6/15/2008

Question
QUESTION: Is there a difference between 18 ct Aida and 18 ct Pima?

ANSWER: Hello, Mary Ann

I've never heard of Pima fabric before, however, I have heard of Pima thread, and found this information about it:

"Watercolours is a three-ply pima cotton - a long-staple, extremely strong fiber. It is mercerized, which makes it even stronger and gives it it's characteristic sheen. Watercolours is not a pearl cotton. Pearl refers to the twist of the yarn, not the type of fiber.

The three strands are cabled, but are divisible. They should be separated even if working with multiple plies so that you can control the smoothness of your stitching. Watercolours has the same versatility as Persian wool and can be used for all forms of needlework including needlepoint, cross stitch, tatting, hardanger, darning patterns, knitting, crochet, and crewel."

I hope that helps.  Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,

Angela :)



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: It is by Charles Craft Pima 18 Count it says it si 100%pima cotton.


Answer
Hello again, Mary Ann :)

The only thing that I could come up with regarding Pima is the following item from Charles Craft:

http://www.charlescraft.com/shoppingcart/customer/viewproductdetails.jsp?pname=P

Unfortunately, I've never heard of this product before, and I don't know anything about it.

Sincerely,

Angela