Raise your hand if you know what chenille is? Well, if you don't here is a quick lesson. Chenille actually means "caterpillar" in French. Chenille yarn is thick, fuzzy, and soft, and lengths of it actually look like fuzzy caterpillars. According to Wise Geek, "Textile historians believe that chenille has been produced since the 18th century. It was not until the 20th century that it developed widespread popularity. In the 1930s, chenille became a popular fabric for housewares. Very sturdy versions of the yarn were used on bedspreads and even carpets. In the 1970s, it became a commercialized in garments. It was not until almost two decades later, in the 1990s, when standards for production were developed for chenille."
Chenille has a distinct look and feel, and is gaining popularity on the vintage market. Currently, there are over 2,900 completed sold listings for "vintage chenille bedspread" on eBay and prices go as high as $400. Chenille bedspreads are a great item to pick up at estate sales or at garage sales where Baby Boomers may be downsizing. Peacocks seem to be a common theme for this item. I remember having a chenille spread on my bed as a child and the luxurious plush feeling of the fabric.
Add chenille bedspreads to your BOLO (be on the lookout) list. They are easy to ship and can sell for pretty high prices.
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I'm curious about fabric content. I've seen chenille that is 100% cotton and some that has polyester and doesn't feel as nice. I've assumed that the cotton chenille is the desirable one.
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