French meaning watered. Finish on silk or cotton cloth. Engraved rollers, heat and pressure applied to corded silk or taffeta flatten the surface at intervals, leaving the original roundness in other places. Moire' antique was originally produced by folding the cloth lengthwise, face in and pressing with moisture and heat. This gave a natural watered effect in a design which repeated on either side of the centre. Now, engraved rollers imitate the pattern by a quicker process. Moire finish is not permanent. Steaming or wetting will destroy the pattern. Uses: coats, suits, trimmings. Width, 22", 40".
