Craftsmanship
Frette's craftsmanship is rooted in its use of premium materials and Italian heritage production techniques. Frette's identity is rooted in the artisanal traditions of Monza and the Brianza regions of Italy, where generations of craftsmen have honed their skills in textile artistry.
Frette sources high-quality fibers including long staple cotton, silk, and cashmere, among other natural fibers. The company uses materials that are chosen for their durability, softness, and ability to retain color and texture over time. Its bed linens are produced using only extra-long staple cotton because with longer fibers, the strength and longevity of the finished product improves. The linens also undergo a patented finishing process to create the incredibly smooth and lustrous finish for which they are known.[4]
Weaving takes place on both antique and modern jacquard looms, allowing the company to produce intricate and large scale designs. Frette is known for its mastery of patterns such as brocade, matelassé, and damask, which require careful programming of the loom to achieve the desired texture and design. Only a limited number of looms are capable of handling the complexity, and the process often involves highly trained technicians to oversee production.[5]
Frette continues to employ traditional methods in select pieces. Some linens are still woven on shuttle looms, a technique that produces a denser, more structured fabric. Though time consuming, this process contributes to the distinctive tactile quality of Frette. In 2020, Frette's CEO cites the small artisanal workshops scattered across Italy as the key to keeping the caliber so consistently high. “From beautiful laces manufactured in the south to embroidery in the north, we have about 200 different suppliers within Italy today.” Each product takes roughly 18 months from ideation to realization, a process that ensures that each bedsheet, throw pillow, or towel set is of the highest standard that reflects the brand's reputation of regal comfort. Even some sheet sets, which retail for up to 3,800 euros on the website, take four weeks to make. [6]
Frette's production model incorporates partnerships with a network of specialized textile workshops and artisans across Italy. The company collaborates with hundreds of independent suppliers and craftspeople who contribute expertise in areas such as weaving, dyeing, embroidery, and finishing.
