Damask (dăm'əsk) [from Damascus], fabric of silk, wool, linen, cotton, or man-made fibers, with a pattern formed by the weaving; e.g., the ground may be in twill weave, and the contrasting design in satin.
True damasks are flat and reversible, thus differing from brocades. Splendid patterns, silks, and dyes were used by the Damascus weavers, sometimes with the addition of gold or silver thread. Fine linen table damask is one of the most beautiful examples of the modern weavers' art, in both pattern and texture. Double damask has more picks, or threads, to the inch than single; compound damask has one or two warps and two fillings.
In the past few months, searching for inspiration for my upcoming wedding events landed me in these fabulous sites showcasing this rich, traditional fabric, with a modern appeal -- damask. This is such a great pattern for a wedding theme, with exciting color combinations to choose from that will surely make a bold statement to any event. And here I found a treasure trove of great finds with this timeless material that is very chic for the home, wedding elements, and other accessories. Indulge and be inspired as well!
Damasks were one of the five basic weaving techniques of the Byzantine and Islamic weaving centres of the ealy Middle Ages, and derive their name from their supposed origin in the city of Damascus, Syria. Damasks were scarce after the ninth century outside of Islamic Spain, but were revived in some places in the thirteenth century. By the fourteenth century, damasks were being woven on draw looms in Italy. From the fourteenth to the sixteenth century, most damasks were woven in a single colour, with a glossy warp-faced satin pattern against a duller ground. Two-colour damasks had contrasting colour warps and wefts, and polychrome damasks added gold and other metallic threads or additional colors as supplemental brocading wefts. Medieval damasks were usually woven in silk, but wool and linen damasks were also woven.
Damask weaves are commonly produced today in monochromatic (single-colour) weaves in silk, linen or linen-type synthetic fabrics which feature patterns of flowers, fruit, and other designs. The long floats of satin-woven warp and weft threads cause soft highlights on the fabric which reflect light differently according to the position of the observer. Damask weaves are most commonly found in table linens, but are also used for clothing and furnishings. Modern damasks are woven on computerized Jacquard looms.
I love traditional weaving!!! I have this growing interest in weaving and tapestry-making. Damask tapestries are indeed very interesting! I hope, one day, I am able to start a carpet business, selling Moroccan, Damask, Indian, Mexican, Thai, Tibet, Chinese, Persian, and all other Middle Eastern rugs!!! That is my dream and I am working on it!!