Fabulous Faux / Faux Finishes (Shop by Pattern) – Designs that realistically replicate the look of natural or luxurious materials such as marble, stone, wood, plaster, and faux skins. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers, these patterns create the appearance of authentic surfaces while offering greater versatility and ease of use.
The WorkRoom Glossary of Fabrics & Wallpapers
The WorkRoom Fabric & Wallpaper Glossary
Luxury Fabric & Wallcovering Terms Explained
Welcome to The WorkRoom Fabric & Wallpaper Glossary—your comprehensive guide to understanding the materials, constructions, techniques, and finishes used in luxury interior textiles and wallcoverings.
Whether you’re shopping for designer fabric, selecting wallpaper by type, or comparing finishes for upholstery or drapery, this glossary is designed to help you make informed, confident decisions. From traditional craftsmanship to modern performance materials, each definition explains how these terms are used in real interior design applications.
A
Acetate – A semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose derived from wood pulp. Known for its smooth, silky texture and elegant drape.
Abstract (Shop by Pattern) – Modern, non-representational designs available in both fabrics and wallpapers for contemporary interiors.
Acrylic – A synthetic fiber known for softness and durability, often used in blends to mimic wool or enhance upholstery performance.
Acoustical Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – Wallpaper designed to improve room acoustics while adding texture and style.
Alpaca – A natural fiber from the alpaca animal, valued for its silky feel, warmth, and luxurious drape.
Animal / Insect (Shop by Pattern) – Decorative motifs featuring wildlife or insects, available in both fabrics and wallpapers for playful or nature-inspired spaces.
Appliqué – A decorative technique where fabric shapes are sewn onto a base fabric to create a raised pattern or design.
Artisan Wallpaper – Handcrafted wallpaper made using traditional methods, such as block printing or hand-painting, offering unique texture and character.
Asian / Chinoiserie (Shop by Pattern) – Designs inspired by East Asian art and motifs, available in both fabrics and wallpapers and known for timeless elegance.
B
Bamboo (Fiber) – A naturally derived fiber made from bamboo pulp; soft, breathable, and increasingly used in eco-friendly textiles.
Backing – A secondary layer applied to fabric or wallpaper to provide strength, stability, or ease of installation.
Basket Weave – A weave variation where two or more warp yarns are interlaced with the same number of weft yarns, creating a basket-like surface texture.
Batiste – A lightweight, fine plain-weave fabric, often made of linen or blended fibers, used for sheers or linings.
Blackout Fabric (Shop by Type) – Fabric designed to block light, commonly used for drapery, curtains, and shades.
Bird’s Eye – A woven pattern featuring small diamond shapes that add subtle texture to interior textiles.
Boho Style (Shop by Pattern) – Eclectic, free-spirited designs available in both fabrics and wallpapers for relaxed, creative interiors.
Brocade – A rich, decorative woven fabric with raised designs, often incorporating metallic threads.
Bolt – A standard roll of fabric, typically measuring 30–60 yards depending on material.
Botanical & Floral (Shop by Pattern) – Nature-inspired designs featuring plants, flowers, and foliage, available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Bouclé Fabric (Shop by Type) – A textured fabric made from looped yarns, creating a nubby surface ideal for upholstery and accents.
C
Calendered – A finishing process using heated rollers to create a smooth, glossy, or lightly embossed surface on fabrics or wallpapers.
Chenille Fabric (Shop by Type) – A soft, plush fabric with a velvety surface, commonly used for upholstery and drapery.
Chinoiserie – A decorative style inspired by East Asian art, commonly seen in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Chintz Fabric (Shop by Type) – Printed and glazed cotton fabric with decorative patterns, used in upholstery and interiors.
Check / Plaid (Shop by Pattern) – Checked patterns available in both fabrics and wallpapers, suitable for classic or casual interiors.
Cottagecore (Shop by Pattern) – Soft, romantic patterns inspired by pastoral life and traditional countryside aesthetics. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers, often featuring florals, toile-like scenes, or nostalgic motifs.
Cotton Fabric (Shop by Type) – A natural fiber valued for breathability and versatility across upholstery, drapery, and prints.
Cork Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – A natural wallcovering made from cork veneer, offering warmth, texture, and acoustic benefits.
Crypton Fabric (Shop by Type) – Performance fabric engineered for stain, moisture, and odor resistance.
Cut Velvet – Velvet fabric with portions of the pile cut away to reveal a contrasting ground.
D
Damask (Shop by Pattern) – A classic ornamental pattern available in both fabrics and wallpapers, known for elegant, symmetrical motifs.
Diamond (Shop by Pattern) – Repeating diamond motifs available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Dots / Circles (Shop by Pattern) – Playful or graphic dot and circle patterns found in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Double Roll – Wallpaper sold in a standard double-length roll.
Drop Match – A wallpaper pattern match where each strip is offset vertically.
Dupioni Silk – Crisp silk fabric with natural slubs and texture.
Dye Lot / Run Number – The production batch identifier used to ensure color consistency in fabrics and wallpapers.
E
Embossed Wallpaper – Wallcovering with raised texture for added dimension.
Embroidery / Crewel (Shop by Type) – Decorative stitching applied to fabrics and select wallpapers.
Eucalyptus Fiber – A sustainable fiber derived from wood pulp, prized for softness.
F
Faux Fur Fabric (Shop by Type) – Synthetic fur used for upholstery accents and décor.
Faux Grasscloth Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – Wallpaper mimicking grasscloth with easier maintenance.
Faux Leather / Vegan Leather (Shop by Type) – Synthetic leather alternatives for upholstery.
Faux Suede Fabric (Shop by Type) – A soft, suede-like material made from synthetic fibers, also known as Ultrasuede or vegan suede. It offers the look and feel of genuine suede with improved durability, easy maintenance, and suitability for upholstery and décor applications.
Flock Wallpaper – Wallpaper with velvety raised patterns created by fiber application.
Floral Print – Decorative floral motifs used across fabrics and wallpapers.
G
Geometric (Shop by Pattern) – Geometric designs available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Grasscloth Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – A natural wallcovering handwoven from grasses, jute, hemp, or bamboo. Grasscloth is known for its organic texture, natural color variation, and visible seams, which are part of its artisanal character but require more careful installation and maintenance.
Gingham Fabric – A classic checked cotton fabric.
Ground – The base fabric or surface onto which a pattern is applied.
H
Hand-Blocked Wallpaper – Wallpaper printed by hand using carved wooden blocks, resulting in artisanal variation and depth.
Hemp – A sustainable natural fiber that is strong, breathable, and commonly used in eco-conscious textiles and wallcoverings.
Herringbone (Weave) – A V-shaped weaving pattern resembling a fish skeleton, used in classic fabrics and decorative textiles.
Horizontal Repeat – The distance between repeating patterns across the width of a fabric or wallpaper.
I
Iconic Wallpaper (Shop by Pattern) – Wallpaper featuring timeless, instantly recognizable designs that have remained relevant for decades. These patterns are often signature styles from heritage design houses—such as classic Schumacher motifs—that have been continuously produced, reinterpreted, or recolored over many years. Iconic wallpapers are valued for their proven longevity, design pedigree, and ability to anchor both traditional and transitional interiors.
Indoor / Outdoor Fabric (Shop by Type) – Fabric engineered to withstand moisture, sunlight, and heavy wear while maintaining a refined look for interiors. Commonly used for patios, sunrooms, and high-traffic spaces, these performance fabrics are offered by leading brands such as Sunbrella, Pindler, and Schumacher, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Ikat (Shop by Pattern) – A pattern characterized by blurred edges created through resist-dye techniques, available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
J
Jacquard Fabric (Shop by Type) – Woven fabric with intricate patterns produced on a jacquard loom, commonly used for upholstery and drapery.
Jute – A coarse natural plant fiber used in textiles and wallcoverings for organic texture.
L
Lisle Finish / Lisle Yarn – A finishing process applied to yarns or fabrics to create a smoother, more uniform surface.
Liner Paper – A heavyweight paper or vinyl layer installed beneath wallpaper to smooth walls or conceal imperfections.
Linen Fabric (Shop by Type) – A natural fiber made from flax, valued for its crisp texture, breathability, and timeless appeal.
Luster – The sheen or reflective quality of a fabric or wallpaper surface.
M
Matelassé – A woven fabric with a quilted or padded appearance, often used in bedding and upholstery.
Metallic (Shop by Pattern) – Designs featuring metallic inks, foils, or threads, available in both fabrics and wallpapers for added shimmer.
Modern (Shop by Pattern) – Clean, contemporary patterns emphasizing simplicity, scale, and bold design. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers for sleek, current interiors.
Mohair Fabric (Shop by Type) – A luxurious fiber from the Angora goat, known for durability, sheen, and softness.
Moiré (Moiré) – A decorative fabric finish characterized by a rippled, water-like pattern created by pressing the fabric through heated rollers. Most commonly seen in silk or silk-blend textiles, moiré adds subtle sheen and movement and is often used for drapery, wall upholstery, and elegant accent applications.
Multipurpose Fabric (Shop by Type) – Fabric suitable for multiple applications, including upholstery, drapery, and accessories.
Murals (Shop by Type) – Large-scale wallpaper designs created as panels or continuous scenes rather than repeating patterns. Murals are used to create a dramatic focal point, often depicting landscapes, abstract art, or illustrative imagery across an entire wall or room.
N
Natural Fiber Fabric – Textiles made from plant or animal sources such as cotton, wool, silk, and linen.
Non-Woven Wallpaper – Wallpaper made from blended fibers that allows paste to be applied directly to the wall for easier installation.
P
Paperweave Wallpaper – A wallcovering made from woven paper fibers designed to mimic the look of natural materials. Paperweave offers a more uniform appearance, consistent color, and easier installation and maintenance compared to natural wallcoverings. Paperweave vs. Grasscloth – Paperweave provides a cleaner, more controlled look with greater durability and ease of care, while grasscloth offers authentic natural texture and variation for a more organic, handcrafted aesthetic.
Pattern Repeat – The distance before a design repeats on fabric or wallpaper, critical for yardage calculations.
Performance Fabric (Shop by Type) – Fabric engineered for durability, stain resistance, and easy maintenance.
Printed Fabric (Shop by Type) – Fabric with patterns or designs applied to the surface through printing techniques rather than woven construction. Printed fabrics include florals, geometrics, stripes, scenic, and novelty designs and are commonly used for drapery, upholstery, and decorative accents.
Printed Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – Wallpaper produced using digital, rotary, or screen-printing methods.
R
Railroaded Fabric – Fabric woven or printed so the pattern runs horizontally across the bolt.
Raffia Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – Wallcovering woven from palm fibers, offering rich texture and natural variation.
Rayon – A semi-synthetic fiber with a silky hand and elegant drape.
Repeat Match – How wallpaper patterns align from strip to strip.
Random Match (Free Match) – Wallpaper patterns that require no alignment between strips.
S
Sateen Fabric – A smooth cotton weave with a soft sheen.
Satin – A fabric defined by its satin weave, which creates a smooth, lustrous surface on the face and a duller back. Satin can be made from silk, cotton, or synthetic fibers and is commonly used for drapery, accent upholstery, pillows, and decorative applications where sheen and elegance are desired.
Scenic (Shop by Pattern) – Large-scale designs depicting landscapes, architecture, or pictorial scenes. Scenic wallpapers are used as statement features to create depth, drama, and a sense of place in an interior.
Silk Fabric (Shop by Type) – A luxurious natural fiber known for luster, strength, and refined drape.
Sisal – A coarse natural fiber derived from agave, commonly used in wallcoverings and rugs.
Solid (Shop by Pattern) – Single-color designs or subtle textures without a distinct motif. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers and ideal for grounding a space or pairing with patterns.
Southwest (Shop by Pattern) – A design style inspired by the American Southwest, featuring earthy colors, bold geometric shapes, and tribal or desert-influenced motifs. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers, Southwest patterns add warmth, character, and a sense of place to interiors.
Stripe (Shop by Pattern) – Linear patterns available in both fabrics and wallpapers, ranging from classic to modern.
Sure Strip® wallpaper by York Wallcoverings (shop by type) is a non-woven, breathable wallcovering designed for easy installation and clean removal without damaging walls. It is paste-the-wall friendly and ideal for quick updates or rentals. Vinyl wallpaper, by contrast, has a vinyl surface that is more moisture-resistant and washable, making it better suited for kitchens, baths, and high-traffic areas, but it is less breathable and typically more permanent.
T
Taffeta Fabric (Shop by Type) – A crisp fabric with a smooth surface, often used for drapery and formal accents.
Textured (Shop by Type) – Fabrics and wallpapers with raised or tactile surfaces that add depth and dimension.
Toile (Shop by Pattern) – Scenic or pastoral imagery typically printed in a single color. on a light color. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers and rooted in traditional design.
Traditional & Decorative Fabrics (Shop by Pattern)are classic interior textiles defined by ornamental patterns, historical influences, and timeless design. Common motifs include chintz, damask, paisley, medallion, ikat, tapestry, and formal florals, produced through woven or printed constructions. These fabrics are widely used for upholstery, drapery, and accent pieces, adding structure, elegance, and visual richness to interiors that favor classic or transitional style over modern minimalism.
Traditional & Decorative Wallpapers (Shop by Pattern) feature timeless, ornamented designs inspired by historic interiors and decorative arts. Popular motifs include damask, paisley, medallion, toile, ikat, formal florals, and tapestry-style patterns. These wallpapers are ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, libraries, and entryways where layered design and enduring style are desired.
Trellis / Lattice (Shop by Pattern) – Interlocking geometric patterns inspired by architectural latticework, available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Trompe l’Oeil (Shop by Pattern) – Decorative designs that create the illusion of three-dimensional objects on a flat surface, available in both fabrics and wallpapers.
Tropical (Shop by Pattern) – Patterns inspired by tropical flora, fauna, and landscapes. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers and often used to add color and energy.
U
Unpasted Wallpaper – Wallpaper requiring paste to be applied during installation.
Pre-Pasted Wallpaper – Wallpaper with adhesive already applied, activated with water.
Upholstery Fabric (Shop by Type) – Durable fabric designed specifically for furniture applications.
V
Velvet Fabric (Shop by Type) – A pile fabric with a smooth, plush surface associated with luxury interiors.
Vinyl Wallpaper (Shop by Type) – Durable, washable wallpaper suitable for kitchens, baths, and high-traffic areas.
Voile Fabric – A sheer, lightweight fabric used for curtains and layered window treatments.
Viscose – A semi-synthetic fiber used to add softness and sheen to fabric blends.
W
Wallpaper Panel / Mural (Shop by Type) – Large-scale designs installed as panels to create a mural effect.
Whimsical/Novelty (Shop by Pattern) – Fun, imaginative designs with a lighthearted or playful feel. Available in both fabrics and wallpapers and used to add personality and charm.
Wood, Shell, Cork & Natural Wallpapers (Shop by Type) – Wallcoverings made from or inspired by natural materials such as wood veneer, shell inlay, cork, and other organic fibers. These wallpapers emphasize texture, warmth, and natural variation, adding depth and an organic, elevated feel to interior spaces.
Wool Fabric (Shop by Type) – A natural fiber known for warmth, resilience, and durability.
Worsted Wool – A smooth, high-quality wool made from long, combed fibers.
Woven Fabric – Textiles created by interlacing yarns at right angles.
Z
Zigzag / Chevron (Shop by Pattern) – Repeating V-shaped patterns found in both fabrics and wallpapers, adding movement and energy to interiors.
At The WorkRoom, we curate an extensive selection of luxury fabrics and wallcoverings from iconic design houses such as Scalamandré, Sandberg, Colony, and Old World Weavers, along with contemporary performance and made-to-order collections.
Shop online to explore fabrics and wallpapers by type, pattern, material, or performance, or contact our team to request samples, source trade-exclusive designs, or receive personalized guidance for your project.