Damask combines warp-faced satin and weft-faced sateen areas to create reversible woven patterns. Sewport describes the play between those regions as a defining feature of the cloth. The pattern is structural rather than dependent on applying separate printed colour to every motif.

Damask Produces Pattern Through Contrasting Reflective Surfaces

Silk, cotton, wool and synthetics can all be used. Their different yarn properties influence drape, warmth and handle, so two damasks can share a similar design while serving very different garment or household applications.