Brocades

Pattern woven in relief

Brocade is woven rather than printed: additional threads are carried through the cloth to build a raised design on the face, which is why you can feel the pattern and see the floats on the reverse. Metallic threads in the weave are where the sheen comes from.

It has enough body to hold a structured shape, which makes it the traditional cloth for waistcoats, bodices, jackets, historical and theatrical costume, occasion wear and cushions. Finish raw edges, since the carried threads on the back pull loose easily, and press from the reverse so the raised pattern is not flattened.