Lightweight, closely woven, plain
cotton cloth first made in
Cambrai,
France, and originally a fine
linen fabric. Printed cambric was used in London by 1595 for bands, cuffs, and ruffs. Modern cambric is made from choice American or Egyptian cotton, with both warp and
weft, or filling, yarns ranging from 60 to 80 count, and is usually lightly calendered to produce a slight gloss on one side. It is ideal for handkerchiefs, children’s dresses, slips, underwear, and nightgowns.