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There’s no feeling quite as cozy as jumping into a bed dressed with thick flannel sheets. Whether you’re looking for a warmer, full-time replacement for your traditional cotton sheets or just want to bulk up your bedding during the winter months, flannel sheets are an exceptionally soft option that are sure to keep you toasty at night.
Preeti Gopinath, Director of the MFA Textiles Program and Associate Professor at the Parsons School of Fashion, says that when looking for the highest-quality flannel sheet, one important factor to consider is the weight of the flannel, measured in grams per square meter, or GSM. “The higher the GSM, the heavier and denser the fabric, as more yarns are packed into a square meter,” she adds. “This usually implies a better-quality fabric and a tighter weave.”
After hours of research, we put 30 top-rated flannel sheets to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, evaluating them by their quality, texture, breathability, durability, value, and warmth.
Read ahead for the best flannel sheets, backed by our thorough testing.
Best Overall
Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheets
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GOTS and Made Safe certified
Reusable and sustainable packaging
Weighty, durable construction
Higher price point
Of the 30 sheets we tested, the COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheets hit the mark on all fronts, earning perfect scores across the board. We were immediately impressed with the overall quality of the flannel sheet, as it seemed to be well made and had a nice thickness. Our tester found the sheet’s texture to be very fleecy, with a soft plush feel on both sides that’s especially suitable for colder climates. The COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheets were tied for the heaviest flannel sheets we tested, at around 225.28 GSM.
Despite their hefty construction, our tester found that the sheets were very warm but still comfortable enough that she didn’t overheat. “They were a nice weight for a flannel and didn’t become too hot,” she said. While the COYUCHI sheets definitely possessed a significant thickness and density, they still provided adequate airflow, allowing for tons of breathability. The sheets held up exceptionally in the wash, and we were impressed that they still maintained their quality and didn’t seem to have any pilling or snags.
These sheets are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and Made Safe-certified, so you can feel good about the sustainability practices that go into the manufacturing of the product. This sheet set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and one to two pillowcases. (The twin set comes with one pillowcase, while the larger sets come with two.) If you’re looking to invest in flannel sheets, the quality and construction of the COYUCHI sheets can’t be beat, as their overall comfort and durability make these a bedding staple you’ll keep for years to come.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Organic Turkish Cotton | Weight: 225.28 GSM | Care: Machine wash cold on delicate or gentle cycle, tumble dry low
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Best Budget
Bliss Casa Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
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Amazon
Good value, considering low price point
Old-school, vintage-looking patterns
Double-brushed
Loose string and some pilling after washing
Inside of the sheet is white
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly flannel sheet set, the Bliss Casa 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set is a great pick that feels way more high-end than it actually is. This sheet set offers a ton of bang for your buck, and we were impressed by its high-quality feel at such a low price point. The overall construction of these sheets was sound, as the fabric printing was good quality, and there were no loose strings hanging off the sheets. Our tester described the texture of the sheets to be “buttery smooth to the touch,” with a nice thickness and weight warm enough to keep you cozy throughout the night. These sheets were also surprisingly breathable, as there was enough airflow to prevent overheating, but not enough to feel drafty or cold.
Although we still consider these sheets to be a great option for their price point, they could have held up better in the wash. They aren’t as durable as some of the other options on this list, as we noticed there were light pilling and loose threads after washing. Despite some post-wash issues, we think their quality construction rivals that of more expensive flannel sheets, bringing a ton of value to the Bliss Casa sheet set. “They are stylish, comfortable, and mechanically sound to provide comfort at a lower price point,” our tester said.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 150 GSM | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low. Wash dark colors separately.
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Best Splurge
Boll & Branch Solid Flannel Sheet Set
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Boll & Branch
OEKO-TEX and GOTS certification
Available in eight sizes, including hard-to-find options
High-quality, durable sheets
Deep fitted sheet pockets at 18 inches
High price point
Pillowcase was too tight post-wash
A little pilling post-wash
The price of luxury can be steep, but for those who are willing to spend a little extra money on their bedding, the Boll & Branch Flannel Sheet Set is well worth it. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, we found this GOTS and OEKO-TEX certified sheet set to be velvety and soft to the touch on both sides. These sheets are brushed and triple sheared, a finishing process that is intended to help prevent pilling. We found the texture of this set to be lavishly warm yet breathable. Our tester noted that these sheets provided adequate airflow and didn’t cause her to overheat, which impressed her.
Other than a bit of shrinking, which is normal for cotton products, our tester noted very little pilling and no wear on the sheets post-wash. Although these sheets have a higher price point than our other options, we found them to be worth the investment, considering their luxurious texture and top-notch manufacturing process. “It’s easy to tell at first touch these sheets were very high quality and what you would want to have on your bed,” she said. “When you break down the cost per day and how long you spend in bed, [these sheets are] definitely worth it!”
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, King w/Std. Cases, Cal King, Split King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 135.47 GSM | Care: Machine wash gentle cold, tumble dry medium
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Best Breathable
The Vermont Country Store Open-Stock Portuguese Cotton Flannel Sheets
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The Vermont Country Store
Triple-brushed flannel on both sides
Material is thick yet breathable
Limited color options
Pillowcase was somewhat tight around fluffier pillow
While "breathability" may not be the first word that comes to mind when talking about flannel sheets, warmth and breathability actually go hand in hand with this flannel sheet set from The Vermont Country Store. Gopinath explained that while the napping process allows a flannel sheet to trap in warmth, its breathability will be determined by the fiber content in the specific material used to make it. When looking for more breathable sheets, consumers should ensure that the product is made with high-quality materials. “A cotton fabric is breathable, meaning it allows air to pass though, whereas synthetic materials like polyester and nylon tend to be less breathable,” she said.
Made with 100 percent Portuguese cotton, we loved the amount of airflow this sheet set provided during our lab tests. The sheets are soft and thick, and while both sides are napped, the napping is subtle enough to ensure breathability. In addition to the impressive airflow these sheets provided, they warmed our tester up quickly and felt cozy during our lab tests. These sheets performed well in the wash, with no noticeable pilling or loose threads. Overall, our tester was seriously impressed with the quality and comfort of these sheets: “I’ve never slept in flannel sheets before, but after this test, I might have to get a set for myself,” she said.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Std. Case | Material: Cotton | Weight: 168.96 GSM | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low. Wash dark colors separately
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Best Patterned
True North by Sleep Philosophy Flannel Sheet Set
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Amazon
Lots of charming and unique pattern options
Good value for price point
Very warm and suitable for colder temperatures
Eligible for Prime shipping
Not as breathable as other options
Some fading and loose strings after washing
Print only on one side of the sheets
Fitted sheet depth of 14 inches might not fit larger mattresses
For those who looking to stray from the traditional colorways that most flannel sheet sets offer, the True North Flannel Sheet Set is a great option to consider when looking to add some unique visual interest into a space. With 33 patterned and solid-colored options to choose from, you’re sure to find one you love. However, it’s important to note that the price of the set may vary, depending on the design you choose, so be sure to assess the product’s final price before checking out.
The overall quality and texture of these sheets were surprisingly impressive, considering the relatively low price tag, and we enjoyed the soft, cozy surface of the sheets. However, our tester did note that these sheets are not the most breathable, so while they’re extremely warm, those who are looking for more airflow might want to avoid this product. In addition, we did notice some fading and loose strings post-wash, so we wouldn’t recommend them for those looking for a long-term, durable option to rely on forever. These sets come with one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and one pillowcase for twin and extra large twin sizes, or two pillowcases for all larger sizes. The True North Flannel Sheet Set has thousands of 5-star reviews on Amazon and is eligible for Prime shipping, so you can get these endearing sheets in just a few days if you need them in a pinch.
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 164.78 GSM | Care: Machine Washable
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Best Plaid
UGG Flannel Queen Sheet Set
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Kohl's
Offers free store pickup, same-day delivery, and standard shipping
Good value for price point
No pilling after washing
Pillowcase might not be wide enough for certain pillows
Only one side of the sheet is brushed
Texture is not as luxurious as other options
If you love the classic, nostalgic look of plaid bedding, this UGG Flannel Sheet Set is a quality pick with a price point that won’t break the bank. This sheet set is well suited for those who overheat easily, as the UGG Flannel Sheet Set is a breathable option that isn’t as warm as some of our other picks. While this option is incredibly soft, it’s only napped on one side, so these sheets won’t trap in heat as well as flannel sheets with napping on both sides. Our tester noted that the overall airflow was good, as she didn’t have the issue of feeling too warm underneath them.
While not as luxurious as others we tested, the overall quality of these sheets is still high, considering their price. In addition, they held their own in the wash, as there were no fading, pilling, or loose strings visible afterwards. The UGG Flannel Sheet Set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and one pillowcase for twin size or two pillowcases for all larger sizes. Available in three plaid options and three solid colors, this sheet set is eligible for standard shipping, same-day delivery, and free in-store pickup at a Bed Bath & Beyond.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 221.75 ounces | Care: machine wash cold, tumble dry low
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Best Striped
Pine Cone Hill Cascade Flannel Sheet Set
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Striped pattern helps minimize appearance of wear
Warm yet sturdy material
Limited color and sizing options
Slight pilling and snags after washing
This Pine Cone Hill Flannel Sheet Set’s sleek and stylish design isn’t one you’ll see at most other retailers, so while there’s only one striped pattern to choose from, it’s sure to add some refinement to any space. As an added bonus, the stripes can help hide the appearance of wear, so you’ll be able to keep your flannel sheets looking like new for a longer period of time. Our tester loved the neatness and attention to craftsmanship, as the stitching and colors seemed very high-end. We also appreciate that these sheet sets, which are made with 100 percent cotton, are created by artisans using fair labor practices.
The quality of the fabric used in these sheets is sturdy, with a very slight, understated napped texture. Although the material itself is thicker, our tester was pleasantly surprised by how buttery and velvety these sheets felt. “I was really wowed by how soft they felt in my hand,” she said. Our tester also noted how the sheets felt breathable, but not too drafty. After washing, we noticed slight pilling all over and a small snag on the pillowcase. This sheet set comes with a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and one pillowcase for the twin size or two for the king and queen sizes.
Sizes: Twin, Queen, King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 165.91 GSM | Care: Machine washable
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Best Soft
L.L. Bean Ultrasoft Comfort Flannel Sheet Set
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L.L. Bean
OEKO-TEX certified
Good value for price point
Gets softer with every wash
Slight pilling after washing
Releases a lot of lint after first wash
For those who are looking for exceptionally soft flannel sheets that are ideal for snuggling up this winter, the L.L. Bean Ultrasoft Comfort Flannel Sheet Set is a cult favorite sure to keep you cozy during the chilly season. What makes these flannel sheets stand out is their extremely soft, plush texture that our tester found snug and comfortable to use. While these sheets are constructed with a tight weave, they still provide adequate breathability.
We found these sheets to be very well constructed, with a weight that was neither too heavy nor too light. This makes them a suitable option for those who are looking for flannel sheets that aren’t too far on either side of the spectrum. Unlike some other flannel sheet options, our tester didn’t find these too stiff or weighty, with just the right amount of warmth. They held up okay in the wash, with no major issues other than some slight pilling. We also love that these 5-ounce sheets are OEKO-TEX certified and woven in Portugal with 100 percent cotton. Our testers weren’t the only ones who were pleased with the L.L. Bean Flannel Sheet Set, as they’ve garnered thousands of 5-star reviews online, making them one of the most beloved options we assessed.
Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 178.63 GSM | Care: Not specified
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Best Lightweight
Beautyrest Oversized Flannel 100% Cotton 4 Piece Sheet Set
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Nordstrom
OEKO-TEX certified
Free, fast shipping available in most locations
Suitable for warmer sleepers or year-round use
Slight pilling all over after washing
Twin size not available
If you’re concerned that flannel sheets might be too heavy for your sleeping habits, but still want something slightly heftier than your traditional cotton sheets, the Beautyrest Flannel Sheet Set is the perfect in-between. We liked the overall construction and texture of these sheets, as they were soft to the touch and definitely cozy. Only one side of the sheet was slightly napped, which helps for trapping in some (but not too much) warmth. They were a lot lighter than many other flannel sheets on our list, but they still maintained their warming properties without overheating our tester. “I would purchase them for myself, which is a surprise, as I have never liked flannel sheets because they were too hot,” said our pleasantly surprised tester about the sheets. “These sheets were lightweight and breathable.”
There was some pilling post-wash, but otherwise, these sheets held up nicely. These sheets are OEKO-TEX certified and made with 100 percent cotton. Available in four sizes and six muted colors and patterns, this product is suitable for any type of bedroom. Note that this sheet set does not offer twin sizes. While flannel sheets may be notoriously heavy, the Beautyrest Flannel Sheet Set is a top pick for those who are looking for a more lightweight option.
Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 174.62 GSM | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low
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Best Heavyweight
Peacock Alley Egyptian Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
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Peacock Alley
OEKO-TEX certified
High GSM for a heavier, more durable option
Monogram available
Can be too hot for warm sleepers
Texture is not as soft
If you get especially chilly when sleeping, or live in a particularly cold climate, a heavier flannel sheet set like this one from Peacock Alley is the ideal solution to help you stay warm all through the night. These sheets weigh in at a whopping 200 GSM, meaning they’re one of the heaviest and densest options on our list. While these sheets might be on the pricier side, we think it’s worth it, considering their overall quality and heftiness. We also love that these sheets are OEKO-TEX certified and made with 100 percent Egyptian long staple cotton.
The napping on this product is more subtle, and our tester noted that the texture of these sheets was not as soft as that of some other flannel sheets. However, they did a great job at trapping in body heat and felt extremely warm while underneath them. These sheets aren’t super breathable, so while they might not be for everyone, they’ll definitely do the trick for colder sleepers. This sheet set held up well in the wash, as there were no fading, loose threads, or pilling. For those who have trouble situating their fitted sheets on their beds, the fitted sheets have deeper pockets than many of their competitors, fitting a mattress up to 17 inches deep. There’s also an option to add a monogram onto the sheet set for a personalized touch.
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Egyptian Long-Staple Cotton | Weight: 200 GSM | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Do not mix colors, do not bleach. Tumble dry low, remove promptly
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Best Color Options
Lands' End 5oz Velvet Flannel Sheets
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Amazon
Lots of color options, monogram available
Can buy individual pieces or a set
Breathable yet warm material
Personalized items may not be subject to return
Fitted sheet depth of 14 inches might not fit larger mattresses
Add a subtle yet chic pop of color with the Lands’ End Comfy Super Soft Cotton Flannel Bed Sheet Set, which comes in 10 different colors ranging from rich burgundy to sage green. Sure to pair well with any bedroom style, you can also opt to buy your set monogrammed, which is a great option for those looking for a personalized gift.
We appreciated the quality craftsmanship on these sheets, and our tester said that they felt soft and comfortable. Compared to other heavier flannel sheets on this list, this sheet set has a medium weight, which may be more comfortable for those in the market for something less hefty. Our tester noted that while these sheets delivered on warmth, they were breathable enough that she didn’t feel she would overheat after a full night’s sleep. These sheets looked great after washing, as there was no pilling visible.
Made in Portugal by master weavers, the Comfy Super Soft Cotton Flannel Bed Sheet Set has hundreds of 5-star reviews and boasts a lot of the same qualities as more expensive, high-end sheet sets at a reasonable price. If you don’t want to commit to purchasing an entire sheet set, you can purchase pieces individually at your convenience.
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Material: Cotton | Weight: 178.81 GSM | Care: Machine washable
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Of all the options we tested, the COYUCHI Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheet Set earns our top spot because of its durability, soft plush material, and breathability. Although these sheets come at a higher price point, they hold up well in the wash and have a luxuriously thick feel that you’ll keep for years to come. We also love the Bliss Casa 4 Piece 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set for a more affordable choice, as its extremely soft double-brushed material and charming pattern options add a ton of value to this relatively low-cost pick.
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How We Tested the Flannel Sheets
After researching the most beloved, top-rated flannel sheets currently on the market, we gathered 30 options and put them to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our testers then evaluated them on the basis of quality, texture, breathability, durability, warmth, and overall value. Our testers also assessed the sheets’ overall comfort, weight, weave tightness, and how well they held up in the wash. We analyzed our testers’ scores and insights along with our supplemental research to compile this list of 11 flannel sheets we believe are the best.
What is Spruce Approved?
Here at The Spruce we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend, and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. We also pride ourselves on transparency and will always let you know if we received a product for free.
What to Look for in Flannel Sheets
Napping
Napping is a finishing process that raises the fibers of a material through brushing, which is what gives flannel its signature fuzzy texture. Budget sheets are typically napped on one side, while most higher-quality options are napped on both sides for a cozy feel no matter how you make the bed.
Weight
When it comes to the quality of flannel sheets, a high GSM (grams per square meter) is a strong indicator that the product will be good quality. While traditional cotton sheets typically use thread count to measure quality, flannel sheets tend to use GSM.
Anki Spets, Designer and Owner of AREA Home, explains that when looking for high-quality fabrics to produce flannel sheets for her company, she tends to look for heavier materials. “When I buy fabrics, I always look at the weight,” she said. “In this case, if it’s too light, it’s not going to be good. It’s going to have to be a little heavy.”
The higher the GSM of the flannel sheet, the denser and heavier it will be. Warmer sheets tend to have a higher GSM since this correlates with having a tighter weave, which will trap in heat a lot better than flannel sheets with a looser weave.
Fiber
Many high quality flannel sheets are made with 100 percent cotton, but they can also be made using a blend of fabrics, including polyester. 100 percent cotton flannel sheets will be less prone to pilling and more breathable than those made with synthetic materials.
Sizes
This one’s a no-brainer: If you’re buying sheets for your bed, the sheets need to fit your bed. For most standard-sized beds, finding a set of suitable sheets won’t be a problem. But if your bed is extra-long, if your mattress is particularly deep, or if you want something special (like split king sheets, or a set of king sheets with standard pillowcases), you may have to do some digging.
Colors and Prints
Classic cotton sheets look great in crisp white. But if you’re shopping for snuggly flannel sheets, you may want a cozier color—like soft gray or deep navy. Thankfully, flannel sheets are often available in a range of different colors. And if you’re looking to turn your sheets into a decorative accent, you can even score a patterned or printed set.
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What is flannel?
Flannel is a generally thick and soft woven fabric that has a raised texture, meaning it can trap in heat more effectively than the smooth surface of traditional cotton sheets. This texture is created through a technique called “napping”, a finishing process that involves brushing the fabric. Often, high quality flannel is made of cotton. But you may also see wool flannels or synthetic flannels (also known as microfiber flannels). Preeti Gopinath, Director of the MFA Textiles Program and Associate Professor at the Parsons School of Fashion, said the most important factors to consider when shopping for a well-made flannel are both the quality of the fabric as well as the manufacturing operation. “It’s a combination of both the napping process and the material quality because the fabric needs to be woven strongly enough with fairly dense yarn.”
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Should hot sleepers avoid flannel sheets?
If you tend to get hot when you sleep, then yes, you may want to avoid flannel sheets and opt for cooler options. But if you have your heart set on flannel, there are a couple of things you can do. First, favor cotton flannels over wool flannels and microfiber flannels (cotton tends to be more breathable than wool and synthetic materials. Then, look for a flannel with a lighter weight (5 ounces or less is ideal).
If you run hot, Shaw and Moyer recommend avoiding cheap sheets with any percentage of polyester or acrylic in the makeup. “Those are plastics,” the designers say. “Besides being unnatural, they are super sticky for the night sweats.”
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Is pilling and shrinkage normal for flannel sheets?
In short, yes. Spets explains that the overall quality of both the fabric as well as the construction of the weave will indicate just how much shrinkage and pilling the flannel sheet will have post-wash. “The sheet should not be too loosely woven and it has to have a good quality cotton,” Spets said. “Then it will last. It will not pill and after washing, it will shrink a little bit, but not a lot.”
Shrinkage is natural for cotton fabrics, but flannel sheets with a tighter weave will shrink less, while loosely woven fabrics will have significant shrinkage post-wash. The sheet’s GSM also plays a role in how much shrinkage will occur, as a higher GSM tends to correlate with a tighter, denser weave.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer specializing in bed, bath, and home decor at the Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted lab testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted outside research about the topic. Each option in this list performed the best during our in-lab tests.
In addition, Pineda also spoke to experts in the field in order to gather some guidance regarding the construction and manufacturing process of flannel sheets. Insight was provided by Preeti Gopinath, Director of the MFA Textiles Program and Associate Professor at the Parsons School of Fashion, and Anki Spets, Designer and Owner of AREA Home.