Dratchell

/ˈdræʃəl/ noun

Definition

A device or comb used for roughening the surface of cloth or leather; also called a teasel card or nap-raising tool.

Etymology

From Middle English 'dratchel,' possibly related to 'drat' or words meaning to tear or scratch. The exact etymology is uncertain but relates to textile manufacturing tools.

Kelly Says

Medieval cloth makers used dratchells with teasel flowers (which have tiny hooks) to brush fabric surfaces—teasels work so well that modern manufacturers still use them instead of synthetic alternatives for the finest cloths.

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