What Is Ticking Fabric?
Originally used for mattress covers, ticking is a tightly woven, durable cotton or cotton-linen fabric with signature striped designs. Its clean, versatile lines lend a crisp finish to Roman blinds and curtains, while adding a tactile, vintage feel to headboards and upholstery.
Ticking also pairs beautifully with other prints and textures, making it a favourite for cushions and accessories in rustic, coastal, and country interiors.
Ian Mankin: A Legacy In British Weaving
Ian Mankin is renowned for traditional weaving and UK-based production. Their ticking fabrics feature natural compositions in 100% cotton or cotton-linen, and are woven at a heritage Lancashire mill. With prices from £38 - £52 per metre, they appeal to interior designers and homeowners seeking premium, locally made textiles.
JF Ticking: Affordable Style from Just Fabrics
Designed in the Cotswolds and woven in Europe, the JF Ticking collection combines classic styling with great value. Available in a wide colour range and starting at just £16.95/m, these fabrics offer a practical yet stylish choice for curtains, blinds, and upholstery.
With over 125 five-star reviews and a 25,000 Martindale rating, customer favourites like JF Ticking and Cotswold Ticking are praised for their durability, soft drape, and timeless charm.
Quick Comparison: Ian Mankin vs JF Ticking
Feature |
Ian Mankin Ticking |
JF Ticking (Just Fabrics) |
| Composition | Cotton & cotton-linen blends | Cotton & cotton-linen blends |
| Price | £38 - £52/m - premium pricing for British-made heritage | £16.95 - £21.95/m - affordable without compromising quality |
| Martindale Rating | 21,500 - durable, but varies by range | 25,000 - ideal for curtains, blinds & upholstery |
| Colour Range | 30+ options in traditional and bold palettes | 10+ curated shades including sage, ochre, burnt orange |
| Stripe Style | Varied stripes: fine, bold, and textured looks | Classic fine stripes with soft, modern colourways |
| Washability | Machine washable at 30°C | Machine washable at 30°C |
| Production Origin | Woven in the UK at heritage mills | Designed in the Cotswolds, woven in Europe |
| Customer Reviews | Trusted by high-end decorators and trade clients | 125+ 5-star reviews for durability and value |
| Availability | Limited stock in some lines; lead times may apply | In stock and ready to dispatch; trade book available |
Which Is Right For You?
Choose Ian Mankin if you value British heritage manufacturing, a broad stripe selection, and are happy to pay more for boutique appeal.
Choose JF Ticking for a stylish, high-quality alternative that’s kinder on your budget. With excellent durability, a versatile colour palette, and outstanding customer satisfaction, it’s ideal for design-led homes and everyday projects alike.
Ticking Your Way: Cotton or Linen Blend?
Our ticking range includes three beautiful options:
- JF Ticking is 100% cotton with a crisp, lightweight handle - perfect for blinds, curtains, cushions, and relaxed accessories.
- JF Linen Ticking blends cotton and linen for a more textured, weighty finish - ideal for upholstery, headboards, and structured soft furnishings.
- Cotswold Ticking offers a classic stripe design on a soft cotton base, inspired by our local heritage and suited to a wide range of interior uses.
Whichever you choose, both styles offer natural fibres, classic stripes, and excellent value for a heritage-inspired interior.
Customer Favourites: Shop the Bestselling Shades
From relaxed curtains to tailored cushions, our ticking fabrics are loved for their classic looks and versatility. Popular choices include the fresh and breezy Blue JF Ticking, the warm neutrality of Beige JF Ticking, and the muted green charm of Sage JF Ticking - all 100% cotton and ideal for window treatments or soft furnishings. For added texture, the linen-blend Red JF Linen Ticking and Pink JF Linen Ticking offer a more structured feel, perfect for upholstery and headboards. And for a timeless favourite, Blue Cotswold Ticking delivers heritage style with a soft finish.
Now Available: JF Tickings Trade Book
Designers and upholsterers - discover our new JF Tickings trade book, now available for your studio or workroom. Featuring our core collection, it’s an essential resource for client consultations and sample references. Interested? Contact our team to request your copy.
FAQ: Choosing The Best Ticking Fabric
Is Ian Mankin ticking worth the price?
For those seeking British-made fabrics with a heritage feel, Ian Mankin delivers exceptional quality. For more budget-conscious decorators, JF Ticking offers an equally stylish alternative.
What’s a comparable alternative to Ian Mankin ticking?
JF Ticking fabrics are a smart substitute - delivering classic stripes, natural fibres, and strong durability from just £16.95 per metre.
Which ticking fabric is best for curtains and blinds?
Both brands work beautifully for blinds and curtains. JF Ticking’s cotton-linen blends have a lovely drape and natural texture, making them a practical and stylish choice.
Where can I buy ticking fabric in the UK?
You’ll find the full JF Ticking range online at Just Fabrics here, and in our Cheltenham and Burford showrooms. Ian Mankin fabrics are also stocked in select outlets and specialist retailers.
Timeless Style, Exceptional Value
Ticking never goes out of style - and with JF Ticking, you don’t have to compromise. Explore our collection online or visit one of our Cotswold showrooms to experience the quality firsthand and see why so many customers love this classic look.
