Pilling on sheets and pillowcases? Just wondering if anyone else has this annoying problem of unusual sheets...

Just wondering if anyone else has this annoying problem of unusual sheets and pillowcases developing pilling after washing(those really annoying little hard ball of fluff that makes sheets and pillowcases self-conscious to sleep on) and how do you get rid of them short having to throw out the linen?
Is it because of the element of the linen(thread count) or is there a trick to avoiding/solving this problem?
Answers:    For years i bought sheets at JC Penny's , presently i buy them at Costco . In 30 years or better that i have bought sheets I hold never seen one pill . Are you buying flannel or some other textured cloth ? . I buy percale or 100% cotton sheets better thread count is the best . I think you are getting Blends and i.e. why you are experiencing your condition. Stick with 100% cotton 500+thread count. a honourable set of sheets at Costco's warehouse price is about $55 US expect give or take a few 60-100$ at retail outlets (Queen) size Good sheets are pricey.
To my knowledge, it is the level - you want to get at least possible a 200 thread count.