Decorating Glossary

damask
A heavy fabric of linen, cotton, silk, or rayon created with flat patterns in a satin weave on a plain-woven background, resembling a tone-on-tone effect. More on damask and other fabrics>>

dentil molding
Molding with rectangular tooth-like blocks spaced at equal intervals.

dhurrie rug
A flat woven wool or cotton rug from India.

dormer
A window set vertically in a structure projecting through a sloping roof.

dovetail
Woodworking technique consisting of two interlocking joints; indicative of quality craftsmanship.

dowel
A short wooden or metal peg used to join two pieces of wood or metal by fitting tightly at each end into specially-drilled holes in the two pieces to be joined.

dragging
A decorative paint technique that involves applying a base coat then "dragging" through it with a paintbrush or decorative brush for a subtle, striped effect. More info>>

dupioni
A lustrous silk woven from two different colors of threads so that it shimmers or changes color in the light.

duvet
A thick bed covering made of two layers of cloth that holds a bedspread/comforter.

flame stitch
A wavy, angular pattern that looks like the shape of a flickering flame, normally found on brocade fabrics.

fluting
A series of carved out semicircular grooves usually found on columns, molding or wooden legs.

foam core
A cardboard-like material with a foam center available in varying thicknesses; commonly used to mount photographs and display materials.

fretwork
An ornamental open or pierced woodcarving on furniture pieces.

frieze
A decorative horizontal band, as along the upper part of a wall, doorway or window.

futon
A Japanese-style mattress set upon a folding frame, which can be used for both seating and a bed.