Q. How important is thread count in determining the softness of my cotton printed bed sheets?

Answer

Thread count is a good indicator of fabric density. However just because a sheet has a high thread count does not guarantee that it is soft. A lower thread count sheet woven with single-ply yarn is actually softer than a higher thread count sheet woven with three-ply yarn. A single-ply yarn is more pliable and thinner than a multi-ply yarn making it softer. When it comes to sheet softness the quality of the yarn used is frequently overlooked. Sateen weaves have a higher thread count and are often softer than percale weaves.