This wool, worsted or cotton twill weave creates a standard 6mm check of alternate black squares and white squares.
It’s believed to have started as simple woven lengths worn by shepherds throughout the Scottish lowlands, the north of England, Wales and Ireland, tied around the waist and shoulders to keep warm.
In Scotland it certainly seems to have been the starting point for more complex plaids and tartans. There are records from 1538, in which King James V of Scotland places an order for tertane, a check fabric made from lowland sheep’s wool, which at that time would have been in natural colours: creams and browns, black and white.
Shepherd check can be used for all furnishings, upholstery, curtains, cushions… Simply ensure you choose the appropriate weight.