Admittedly an odd word for a textile, ticking is a strong, tightly woven linen, cotton, or linen-cotton blend fabric. Vintage ticking was quite heavy and used to securely hold the feathers of old mattresses and pillows as to prevent them from poking through the fabric. Modern ticking is a durable material that holds up well to washing and normal everyday wear and tear, and is often used for upholstery, bedding, pillows, and even clothing.