Originally, a sheer linen fabric named for the famous French weaver Jean Batiste. Today, batiste most often refers to a light weight plain weave fabric made with mercerized cotton. The mercerized process imparts a sheen to the surface of the fabric. If you own a handkerchief, you’re probably familiar with batiste. It’s also the perfect fabric to wear on hot summer days, and is also a great fabric for sheets and bedding.