n be more charming as lining for table-covers, screens,
curtains, &c.; and they are rather less expensive than other lining
silks.

The fabrics known as _Plain Tapestries_ are a mixture of silk and
cotton, manufactured in imitation of the handworked backgrounds so
frequent in ancient embroideries--especially Venetian. Almost all the
varieties of _Opus Pulvinarium_, or cushion stitch, have been
reproduced in these woven fabrics.

* * * * *

_Brocatine_ is a silk-faced material, woven to imitate couched
embroidery. The silk is thrown to the surface and is tied with cotton
threads from the back.

As ground for embroidery it has an excellent effect.

[Decoration]

TEXTILE FABRICS.

COTTONS AND WOOLLENS.

_Velveteen_, if of good quality, makes an excellent ground for screen
panels, chair-covers, portieres, curtains, borders, &c. It can be
worked in the hand if the embroidery be not too heavy or large in
style.

* * * * *

_Utrecht Velvet_ is only suitable for coarse crewel or tapestry wool
embroidery. It is fit for curtain dados or wide borderings.

* * * * *

_Velvet Cloth_ is a rich plain cloth, finished without any gloss. It
is a good ground for embroidery, either for curtains or altar-cloths.
It is two yards wide.

* * * * *

_Felt_ is sometimes used for the same purposes, but does not wear
nearly so well, and is difficult to work.

* * * * *

_Diagonal Cloth_ can be worked either in the hand or frame, although
it is always much better in the latter. It is used for table-covers,
curtains, chair-seats, &c.

* * * * *

_Serge_ is usually made thirty-six inches wide. It has long been in
favour for curtains, small table-covers, dresses, &c. It can now be
obtained at the school fifty-four inches wide, in many shades.

* * * * *

_Soft or Super Serge_, also fifty-four inches wide, is an excellent
material, much superior in appearance to diagonal cloth, or to the
ordinary rough serge. It takes embroidery well.

* * * * *

_Cricketing flannel_ is used for coverlets for cots, children's
dresses, and many other purposes. It is of a beautiful creamy colour,
and is a good ground for fine crewel or silk embroidery. It need not
be worked in a frame.