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Short answer
Herringbone is a woven pattern of short diagonal lines that reverse direction in columns, making a zigzag like the bones of a fish. It is a variation of twill weave, so the pattern is part of the cloth, not printed. Herringbone looks tailored, hides wear and marks well, and drapes softly, which suits both curtains and upholstery. Unlike a chevron, where the lines meet at a sharp point, the zigzag in herringbone is offset where it changes direction.
How herringbone is woven
Herringbone starts from twill, the weave that gives denim its diagonal lines. In a twill, each weft thread passes over and under the warp a step further along than the row before, which builds a diagonal rib. In herringbone, the direction of that diagonal reverses at regular intervals, making columns that slope one way, then the other.
Because the reversal is built into the weave, the pattern shows on both sides of the fabric and will not wash or wear off.
Herringbone vs chevron
| Herringbone | Chevron | |
|---|---|---|
| Where the lines meet | Offset: each column is shifted, so the zigzag has a small break | At a sharp point, a continuous V |
| Look | Subtle, textured, tailored | Bolder and more graphic |
| How it is made in fabric | A broken twill weave | Woven, knitted or printed |
The same names are used for wooden floors laid in these patterns.
Why choose herringbone
- Hides wear. The broken surface disguises marks, creases and dust better than a flat plain.
- Adds texture quietly. From a distance it reads as a rich plain; close up, the pattern appears.
- Drapes well. Twill weaves are supple, so herringbone curtains fall into soft folds.
- Works with everything. It pairs easily with plains, stripes and checks.
Herringbone curtains and upholstery
For curtains, a herringbone dimout gives privacy and glare control with more depth than a plain. In the JOTEX range, CALBY is a 100% polyester herringbone dimout in 22 colourways, and MERCATO a 100% polyester herringbone jacquard rated at 20,000 Martindale rubs, which also suits cushions, headboards and bed runners.
For a sofa in daily use, check the rub count first. See Martindale Rub Test and Dining Chair and Headboard Fabric.
Tip
On a large window, the herringbone columns run vertically on a curtain used up the roll. Check the direction before railroading an extra-wide fabric. See Railroaded Fabric Explained.
Caring for herringbone
Care depends on the fibre, not the pattern. Polyester herringbone curtains can usually be machine-washed cool and gentle if the care label allows; jacquards with long floats are safer washed gently or dry-cleaned. See How to Wash Curtains.
Herringbone collections
Herringbone weaves in the JOTEX range, updated from the catalogue.
Browse all collections →Frequently asked questions
What is herringbone fabric?
A woven fabric with a zigzag of short diagonal lines that reverse direction in columns, like the bones of a fish. It is a variation of twill weave.
What is the difference between herringbone and chevron?
In herringbone, the zigzag is offset where it changes direction; in chevron, the lines meet at a sharp, continuous point.
Is herringbone fabric good for curtains?
Yes. It drapes softly, hides creases and marks, and adds texture without a busy pattern.
Is herringbone fabric durable?
Twill weaves are generally hard-wearing, but durability depends on the fibre and construction. Check the Martindale rub count for any seating use.
Is herringbone printed or woven?
True herringbone is woven, so the pattern is part of the cloth and shows on both sides. Printed imitations exist but lack the texture.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.