Sammet

Sammet is a term used in several languages to refer to velvet, a luxurious fabric characterized by a short, dense pile that creates a soft, lustrous surface. The word is linked to the German Samt, meaning velvet, and to related forms in other Germanic languages; in some contexts sammet appears as an archaic or regional variant rather than a distinct fabric category. In general usage, sammet describes the same family of pile-weave fabrics known as velvet.

Velvet has ancient roots, with notable production in medieval Europe and earlier in the Islamic world. Traditional velvet was made from silk or a silk-wool blend, offering a rich appearance and smooth hand. Over time, production expanded to cotton and synthetic fibers, broadening accessibility and application. Modern velvet includes cotton velvet, silk velvet, viscose (rayon) velvet, acetate velvet, and blends, each with different drape, sheen, and durability. Varieties such as crushed velvet and stretch velvet reflect contemporary manufacturing techniques.

Characteristics: velvet fabrics are defined by a dense pile formed on a base fabric, typically created on specialized looms that weave two cloth layers or a pile weft. The resulting surface is soft to the touch and can exhibit a range of lustrous finishes depending on fiber content and pile height. Care requirements vary by fiber type; many silken versions require dry cleaning, while some cotton and synthetic velvets may be machine-washed with appropriate precautions.

Uses: velvet textiles are common in upholstery, curtains, evening wear, and luxury furnishings. They are prized for their tactile richness and dramatic drape, though they can be prone to crushing and snagging with rough handling.

See also: velvet.