A flange is a flat border of fabric, usually one to three inches wide, that extends beyond the seam of a pillow sham or other linen, creating a soft, framed edge. The flange gives a gentle, fluttery finish that frames the pillow elegantly, and it is a classic detail in fine European-style bedding.
What a flange looks like
A flange is the flat lip of fabric that surrounds the filled center of a sham or pillow cover. Rather than ending at the seam, the fabric continues outward a short distance, lying flat to form a decorative frame. When the pillow is inserted, the flange remains soft and unstuffed, giving a graceful, slightly fluttery edge that softens the look of the pillow and adds a sense of refinement.
Why flanges are used
The flange is both decorative and traditional. It frames a pillow the way a mat frames a picture, drawing the eye and lending a tailored yet soft appearance. Flanges have long been a hallmark of luxury European linen collections, prized for the polished, finished look they bring to a dressed bed. They coordinate beautifully with other finishing details like hemstitching or embroidery along the border.
Flange versus knife-edge
The main alternative to a flange is a knife-edge finish, in which the fabric tapers neatly to a sharp, clean seam with no extra border. A flange gives a softer, more decorative frame, while a knife-edge offers a crisp, minimal, modern look. Both are elegant; the choice comes down to whether you prefer a soft framed edge or a sleek, tailored one. Knife-edge finishes have grown especially popular on duvet covers in recent years.
Caring for flanged linens
Wash flanged shams and linens with a gentle, phosphate-free cleanser and avoid chlorine bleach, particularly when the flange carries trim or embroidery. Pressing the flange flat after washing keeps its frame crisp and even, showing off the detail at its best.
You may also like reading what a sham is and about pillowcases and their styles.
This guide was prepared by Fig Linens and Home, a specialist in luxury bedding, bath, and table linens.
