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A tick is a fabric case, and ticking is the fabric traditionally used for pillow cases because of its tight, durable construction; it is not supposed to be easily punctured by feathers. It can be found most often in twill weave, but may also be herringbone twill or plain weave. Ticking is often striped lengthwise, most commonly with blue on white, and ticking stripes are two thin stripes on either side of a thicker stripe.

Originally linen or hemp, ticking is now made of cotton and cotton blends.

Uses: Pillow and mattress cases, overalls


Twilled cotton ticking
Ticking, plain weave