Key Takeaways
The momme is a Japanese unit of measurement used to evaluate the weight and therefore the quality of a silk fabric. The higher the momme, the thicker and better quality the silk.
To choose your linen or silk accessory (pillowcase, sheet, scarf, kimono, etc.), the momme is a determining criterion because it indicates the density, solidity and feel of the fabric. A high momme guarantees a softer, shiny, resistant and comfortable silk.
The French brand
Origin and definition of momme
The momme (もんめ) is a Japanese unit of measurement used to determine the weight of silk fabrics.
This unit of measurement has its origins in traditional silk manufacturing in Japan. The term "momme" comes from the Japanese word "momi" which designates mulberry leaf, the staple food of silkworms.
Originally, the weight of a piece of silk was compared to the weight of a certain number of mulberry leaves, hence the adoption of this specific unit of measurement for this fabric.
Today, the momme makes it possible to evaluate the density and weight of a silk fabric including mulberry silk. The higher the momme, the thicker, stronger and more durable the silk will be.
Also read: How is silk made?
The momme, a unit of measurement specific to silk
The momme is a unit of measurement specifically used to evaluate silk fabrics.
Unlike weight which applies to all types of fabrics (cotton, wool, polyester.), the momme is reserved for measuring silk.
This unit has its origins in Japan, where the artisanal manufacture of silk using ancestral techniques is very widespread.
The momme allows you to determine the density and weight of a silk fabric. The higher the momme, the thicker, stronger and more durable the silk will be.
As the founder of
The Oversized Hoodie® , I am always looking for the best fabrics and materials for our collections. Over the years, I have acquired solid expertise in the choice of textiles, particularly silk. Momme is an essential criterion that I systematically look at to ensure the quality and longevity of our products.
— Geoffrey, Founder ofThe Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: What is the best silk in the world?
How is the momme value of a silk fabric calculated?
The weight of a silk fabric is calculated based on the weight in grams of a fabric surface of one square meter.
More precisely, it is the weight in grams of 45m of fabric over a width of 100cm. The momme is obtained by dividing this weight by 45.
For example, if 45m2 of fabric weighs 405 grams, the calculation will be as follows:
- Weight of the fabric (45m2): 405 grams
- Fabric width: 100 cm
- Momme = Weight (in grams) of 45m2 of fabric / 45 = 405 g / 45 = 9 mommes
Thus, the heavier the fabric, the higher its momme will be. And the greater the momme, the more quality the silk will be.
Also read: Advantages and Disadvantages of Silk: Overview
Choosing your silk pillowcase: the importance of momme
To choose a quality silk pillowcase, momme is an essential criterion.
In fact, the pillowcase is a product used daily, which must combine softness, resistance and durability over time.
We advise you to choose a 22 or 25 momme silk pillowcase to guarantee excellent comfort and good longevity of the product.
During a recent exchange with one of our loyal customers, Céline, about a mulberry silk pillowcase that she had just buying in our online store, the conversation drifted to the quality criteria of silk fabrics.
Céline explained to me that she was in the habit, before each purchase of silk, of systematically looking at the momme indicated by the manufacturer. "The bigger the momme, the more certain I am of having a solid silk that will last a long time. It’s my number 1 criterion!” she told me.
Fortunately, our pillowcase that caught his attention had a momme of 22, which allowed him to make his choice with complete confidence. “Your silk products always have impeccable quality, that’s why I come back to you” she added.
Also read: How to choose your silk pillowcase?
The quality of silk: how does momme intervene?
The momme directly reflects the quality of a silk. The higher it is, the more silk it will be:
- Solid and durable: it will resist washing and wear and tear over time
- Comfortable and soft: its touch will be very pleasant
- Brilliant: it will reflect the light well
On the other hand, a low-mom silk:
- Will be more fragile and will tear easily
- Will feel dull and coarse to the touch
In short, momme guarantees the main properties sought in a quality silk!
At
The Oversized Hoodie® , we recommend that our customers take a good look at the momme when choosing silk. A momme that is neither too low nor excessive is ideal for combining quality and a reasonable budget. For example, for scarves and stoles, 16 to 19 mommes is a good compromise. This is what we use ourselves for our models!
— Geoffrey, Founder ofThe Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: What are the types of silk?
Conclusion
The momme is an essential criterion to evaluate the quality of a fabric or a silk product. This Japanese unit of measurement reflects the density, weight and therefore the mechanical properties of silk (strength, softness, shine, etc.)
The higher the momme, the better and more resistant the silk will be. For an optimal choice, it is advisable to aim for a momme that is neither too low nor excessive, depending on the intended use and your budget. The momme will allow you to make the best choice of silk!
| Appearance | Description | Impact of the mom | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition of momme | Unit of measurement for the weight of silk. | Indicates the density and quality of the silk. | Choose a high momme for better quality. |
| Importance of the mother | Determining criterion for the quality of silk. | The higher the momme, the softer, shinier and more resistant the silk. | Opt for 22 or 25 momme silk for the pillowcases. |
| Calculation of the momme | Based on the weight in grams of a one square meter area of fabric. | Allows you to objectively evaluate the density of the silk. | Use the momme to compare the quality between different silk fabrics. |
| Quality of silk | Momme reflects the strength, softness and shine of silk. | A high-momme silk offers superior properties. | Choose a 19 to 25 momme silk for a good quality-price balance. |
| Choice of silk according to use | The suitable momme varies depending on the application (bed linen, clothing, accessories). | A higher momme is preferable for items subject to frequent use. | 22 to 27 mommes for bedding, 12 to 16 mommes for light scarves. |
FAQ
How to choose silk?
To choose quality silk, the first criterion to look at is momme. The higher it is, the stronger and more comfortable the silk will be. Also think about the intended use (bed linen, clothing, accessories.) to determine the appropriate momme.
Which silk for hair?
For hair care, we advise you to opt for silk 20 mommes minimum, or even 25 mommes for better softness and strength over time.
What is the best quality of silk?
The best quality of silk is generally between 19 and 25 mommes. At this level, silk combines finesse, shine, softness to the touch and strength over time.
What is the best silk for pillow?
For comfortable and durable pillowcases, preferably choose 22 or 25 momme silk. You will benefit from a very pleasant touch for excellent sleep.
How many silk mommes?
It depends on the use, but as a general rule the momme of silk is between 12 and 27 momme. For a scarf or a light scarf, 12 to 16 mommes is enough, while for a kimono or bedding, it is better to aim for 22 to 27 mommes.
19 or 25 momme silk?
25 mommes is preferable to guarantee better longevity and solidity. However, 19 mommes will be suitable for certain less intensive uses (lingerie, scarves).
Mis à jour le 20 mars 2024
