In the competitive world of thread count, a new offering from Sferra is vying for top honors. Its Burano lace bedding ensemble boasts Italian-woven Egyptian cotton with a 1,020 thread count.

Who knew thread count could climb so high? Then again, who knew the price for a sheet set — that's with two pillow cases — could go so high. It's $14,000 for queen; $15,000 for king.

"They're really quite magnificent. Heirloom quality," says Paul Hooker, president of the home textiles company. The lace inserts are made by elderly craftswomen on the island of Burano, off Venice.

Fewer than 10 sets will be available between now and Christmas, so hurry. Call (800) 336-1891 to locate a retailer.