Ticking is a cotton or linen textile that is tightly woven (sometimes with a twill weave) for durability and to prevent down feathers from poking through the fabric, and used to cover mattresses and bed pillows. It commonly has a striped design, in muted colors (grey, blue, brown, occasionally red or yellow) against a plain, neutral background. It is no longer restricted to a utility fabric and has found uses in interior decorating. It is often used e.g. for furniture upholstery, cushion covers, curtains or tablecloths.