A geometric fabric pattern created by intersecting horizontal and vertical bands of color to form a grid of squares. In woven fabrics, this is achieved by alternating colors in both the warp and the weft yarns. The scale can range from tiny gingham to large windowpane grids.
Heard on the job
Cut the front panels carefully so the check matches perfectly across the center seam.
Also heard as
- checkered
- checkerboard
Do not mix it up with
- Plaid: A check consists of simple, evenly sized squares in two or three colors, while a plaid uses multiple overlapping stripes of varying widths to create complex tartans.
Related terms
Plaid
A fabric pattern consisting of crossed horizontal and vertical bands in two or more colors.
Windowpaning
A framing border added around individual quilt blocks.
Warp
The set of lengthwise yarns held in tension on a loom before weaving begins.
Weft
The transverse yarns inserted over and under the warp to create a woven fabric.