Doily

A doily

A doily (or doilie) is a small ornamental mat usually made of cotton or linen placed underneath a dish or bowl. Openwork allows the table surface to show through. In addition to their decorative function, doilies have a utilitarian role, protecting fine wood furniture from scratches from crockery.

In more recent times, paper doilies have become common, and are often used to decorate a plate of food, underlying the food for ornamentation.

Originally the name of a fabric, from Doiley, a 17th century London draper.

Doilies are also used as head coverings in zealous Baptist churches.

See also

• Antimacassar
• Lace