Is satin silk?
Loads of people ask this, drawn in by satin’s luxurious sheen and smooth surface.
The simple answer: Satin and silk are two different things.
The trickier bit is that it’s not always quite that straightforward, as there are quite a number of similarities at play.
Let’s dig deeper into what sets them apart.
Differences between satin and silk
Here’s a rundown of how silk and satin differ:
- Material: Silk is a natural fibre, while satin is a weave that can be made from all sorts of fibres.
- Shine and feel: Silk usually has a glossier shine and feels softer. Satin made from synthetic fibres might look similar but often feels a little different and has its own quirks.
- Care: Silk fabrics need gentler handling, whereas satin from synthetic fibres can be tougher and easier to look after.
With this, you won’t mix them up so easily! 😉
But more info below for an even clearer split!
What is satin?
Satin’s all about the weave - shiny on top, matte underneath.
This specific weaving technique, called the satin weave or atlas weave [1], gives it that classic gloss.
Anything called satin can actually be made from silk, polyester, nylon, or viscose.
The best way to remember this: What makes it "satin" is the weaving style, not the material itself.
What is silk?
Silk is a natural protein fibre [2] derived from animals, harvested from silkworm cocoons.
It’s known for its natural shimmer, strength, and knack for holding warmth while soaking up moisture.
Here's a quick look at the advantages of silk:
For thousands of years, silk’s been prized - once a luxury traded along the famous Silk Road [3].
We're also big fans of silk bedding, like what you'll find from the acclaimed LilySilk brand!
Check out our articles on silk pillowcases and silk bedding for more on this.
Our favourite silk sleep products:
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![LilySilk 22 Momme Seamless Silk Bedding Set]()
![LilySilk 22 Momme Seamless Silk Bedding Set]()
LilySilk![LilySilk]()
22 Momme Seamless Silk Bedding SetPrice from £ 468 £ (582 )The LilySilk 22 Momme Seamless Silk Bedding Set includes a duvet cover, fitted sheet, flat sheet, 2 Oxford pillowcases, 2 Terse pillowcases, and an all-seasons silk-covered silk duvet.The LilySilk 22 Momme Seamless Silk Bedding Set includes a duvet cover, fitted sheet, flat sheet, 2 Oxford pillowcases, 2 Terse pillowcases, and an all-seasons silk-covered silk duvet.Price from £ 468 (£ 582 ) -
![Mayfairsilk Charcoal & Brilliant White Silk Duvet Set]()
![Mayfairsilk Charcoal & Brilliant White Silk Duvet Set]()
Mayfairsilk![Mayfairsilk]()
Charcoal & Brilliant White Silk Duvet SetPrice from £ 1,061The Mayfairsilk Charcoal & Brilliant White Silk Duvet Set includes two 25-momme charcoal grey mulberry silk pillowcases, a 22-momme charcoal grey silk duvet cover, and a 22-momme deep fitted sheet in a contrasting brilliant white.The Mayfairsilk Charcoal & Brilliant White Silk Duvet Set includes two 25-momme charcoal grey mulberry silk pillowcases, a 22-momme charcoal grey silk duvet cover, and a 22-momme deep fitted sheet in a contrasting brilliant white.Price from £ 1,061 -
![Alaska Bear 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase]()
![Alaska Bear 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase]()
Alaska Bear![Alaska Bear]()
100% Mulberry Silk PillowcasePrice from £ 25.99The Alaska Bear 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase is made from premium Grade 6A silk.The Alaska Bear 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase is made from premium Grade 6A silk.Price from £ 25.99
So, is satin silk?
Now you know - satin isn’t the same as silk.
- Silk’s a natural fibre loved for its shine and posh feel.
- Satin’s a weave that mimics that gloss and can be made from various materials.
When picking between silk and satin, think about the material, the qualities you want, and how much care you’re up for.
Table of Contents
Frequently asked questions
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Can satin be as luxurious as silk?
Yes, especially if it’s satin woven from silk.
But even satin from top-notch synthetic fibres can feel luxe, though it won’t match silk’s exact traits.
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How do I tell silk satin from synthetic satin?
Silk often feels softer and warmer with a more natural glow.
A burn test can help too - silk smells like burnt hair, while synthetic fibres pong of burnt plastic.
Though we wouldn't recommend trying this at home!
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Is satin breathable?
This depends on the material.
Silk satin breathes well, but polyester satin lets less air through.
If breathability is important to you, we'd always suggest going for silk.
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Which is better for bedding - silk or satin?
Silk bedding is posh and breathable, but pricey and high-maintenance.
Satin bedding from cotton or microfibre’s a cheaper option with a nice shine.
Naturally, silk would be the better choice since it has more desirable properties, including its enhanced breathability, but it can be a schlepp to care for.
So if you're just after something that feels soft and looks stunning, satin may be a better option.
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Why is silk pricier than satin?
Silk’s production is fiddly and time-consuming, bumping up the cost.
In contrast, satin can be made from cheaper synthetic fibres, keeping the price down.
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References
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