Abstract: refers to a design in the abstract style, i.e. one that represents a general form and not an accurate representation of a subject. 

Accordion: 1x1 rib knit alternating with a 2x2 rib. 

Acrylic coated: A fabric which has been coated, generally on the back, with acrylic resin to make it waterproof or downproof.

Airo finish: a fabric finish that adds softness, volume, and drape produced with machinery  made by Biancalani in Italy . Sometimes called "Airo wash"

Albatross: A lightweight, plain weave fabric traditionally of wool or wool blends with a napped, fleecy surface . So named because the texture resembles the breast of an albatross. Usually light in color- used in infant's wear , sleep wear.

Alencon lace:A needlepoint lace on a fine net ground characterized by a heavy thread (cordonnet) outlining the design. Usually machine made but sometimes the cordonnet is inserted by hand.

Alligator skin: A design, printed or embossed, that suggests the characteristic texture of an alligator. 

Allover lace: general term for a wide lace in which the pattern covers the full width of the fabric . It is generally sold and cut in the same way as non lace fabrics.

Animal skin: refers to a design which suggests the skin of an animal . Leopard, tiger, zebra and giraffe are popular motifs.

Anti bacterial: finish that makes a fabric resistant to the growth of bacteria.

Anti Pill: A finish applied to fleece which involves shearing the surface so that the fabric is less likely to pill 

Antique Satin: a reversible fabric - one side looks like satin and the other side like shantung. It often has a dark warp which enhances the texture. Often used for draperies.

Antique Taffeta: A stiff plain weave fabric , often iridescent, with a slubbed weft. May be of silk or synthetics. 

Antron: brand of nylon fiber trademarked by the Du Pont Co.

Argentan lace: a needlepoint lace on a net ground similar to alencon lace but on a larger net and without the cordonnet outline thread of alencon.

Argyle: A design of various colored diamond shaped blocks on a single colored ground, usually crossed by lines in a diamond shape. Popular in sweaters and hosiery.

Art/Embroidery linen: a balanced plain weave fabric usually of linen or linen/cotton . It is made from smooth round yarns (not flattened by calendering) . Used as a base for embroidered table linen, pillowcases, also in drapes, slipcovers and some apparel. Also called embroidery crash. 

Astrakhan:a thick woven or knitted cloth often of wool with a surface of loops or curls, imitating the coat of an Astrakhan lamb. Also called poodle cloth. Used for coats and trimming.

Atlas: A warp knit fabric in which a set of yarns shifts diagonally one wale per course for several courses , then returns to the original position. 

Awning stripe:
1. a design of wide even stripes
2. a heavy canvas fabric with this design. May be yarn dyed or printed.