Brocades

Pattern woven in relief

Brocade is woven, not printed: extra threads are carried through the weave to build a raised pattern on the face, which is why the design has texture you can feel and a reverse showing the floats behind it. Many brocades include metallic thread, which is where the sheen comes from.

It has enough body to hold a structured shape, so it suits waistcoats, bodices, jackets, historical and theatrical costume, formal and occasion wear, and cushions. Finish the edges — the carried threads on the back can pull loose — and press from the reverse so the raised pattern is not crushed.