Ida Sham Single
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ida Sham Single made of?
The Ida Sham Single is 100% linen with a poly batting fill. The face is quilted Vintage Linen; the backing is plain Vintage Linen. Both layers are garment-washed and dyed using non-toxic dyes, which gives the fabric its characteristic dimensional texture and lived-in softness from the first use.
What sizes are available for the Ida Sham Single?
The Ida Sham Single is available in three sizes: King (20 x 36 inches / 51 x 91 cm), Queen (20 x 30 inches / 51 x 76 cm), and Euro (26 x 26 inches / 66 x 66 cm). Each size has an envelope closure to keep the pillow insert securely in place.
What is the difference between the Ida Sham and a standard pillowcase?
A sham is more fitted than a pillowcase and uses a closure, in this case an envelope closure at the back, to keep the pillow insert in place. A standard pillowcase is open on one side and loosely encases the pillow. The Ida Sham is designed for display on a made bed, while a pillowcase is typically used for sleeping.
What is the quilting pattern on the Ida Sham?
The Ida Sham has a 3-inch diamond quilt pattern, stitched through two layers of Vintage Linen with a poly batting in between. This diamond construction is a variation on the standard box quilt and gives the sham more visual depth than a regular grid pattern. The quilting thread is chosen specifically to complement the texture of the garment-washed linen face.
Is the Ida Sham good for people with sensitive skin or allergies?
Linen is naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, making the Ida Sham a sound choice for sensitive skin. The garment-dyeing process uses non-toxic, reactive dyes with no harsh chemical finishes. Because linen is derived from the flax plant and is moisture-absorbent by nature, it resists the humidity that can encourage allergen buildup in bedding.
How do I wash and care for the Ida Linen Sham?
Wash the Ida Sham in a lukewarm cycle with gentle detergent and a cool rinse, separating light and dark colors. Do not use bleach or products containing whitening agents such as chlorine bleach, alpha hydroxy acids, or benzoyl peroxide, as these will strip the garment-dyed color. Tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly to reduce wrinkling, or line dry for best results. If you prefer a crisper look, press while slightly damp on the Linen or High iron setting.
Will the Ida Sham color match exactly between dye lots?
Garment-dyeing is an artisanal process, and MATTEO allows for a shade variation of +/- 10% from dye lot to dye lot. If you are ordering multiple shams or pairing the Ida Sham with other Ida pieces, ordering at the same time from the same batch gives the closest color consistency. This natural variation is part of what makes each garment-dyed piece distinct.
Can the Ida Linen Sham be used on a sofa or chair as well as on a bed?
The Ida Sham is constructed to withstand home laundering, which makes it practical for use on a sofa or chair as well as on a bed. The poly batting gives it enough body to hold its shape as a decorative pillow cover in a living space. The garment-washed linen face softens further with each wash, so it performs well in high-contact settings.