What is 'printed calico'?

'Printed calico' typically refers to CHINTZ, a cotton fabric often glazed and decorated with floral patterns, commonly used for home furnishings like upholstery and curtains.

Are there other terms for 'printed calico' in crosswords?

While CHINTZ is the primary answer, depending on the number of letters or specific nuance, clues might also hint at related terms like 'gingham' (checked cotton) or 'toile' (printed linen/cotton), though 'printed calico' most directly points to CHINTZ.

Why is 'CHINTZ' a common crossword answer for fabric clues?

CHINTZ is a concise word with a distinct meaning related to fabric and printing, making it suitable for crosswords. Its specific historical and decorative context also allows for diverse clueing.

printed calico crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most accurate and common solutions for the clue "printed calico crossword", along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "printed calico crossword" by Letter Count

6 Letters

CHINTZ: A plain-woven cotton fabric, typically glazed and printed with patterns, especially floral designs. It's commonly used for drapery, upholstery, and slipcovers.

More About "printed calico crossword"

"Printed calico" specifically refers to a type of fabric that has undergone a printing process. Calico itself is a plain-woven textile made from unbleached and often not fully processed cotton. It's known for being inexpensive and versatile. When "printed calico" is mentioned, it typically brings to mind a fabric that has patterns, colors, or designs applied to its surface.

The term "chintz" directly relates to this, as chintz is historically known for its colorful, often floral, patterns applied to a plain-woven cotton (like calico) base, and frequently given a glazed finish for a slight sheen and durability. This connection makes CHINTZ the most fitting and frequently encountered answer in crosswords for the clue "printed calico".

Understanding the nuances of fabric types can often be a hidden key to solving certain crossword clues, as textiles and their characteristics are a surprisingly common theme in puzzles.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Synonyms and Attributes: For clues like "printed calico", think about what defines the item. Is it a material? A process? An appearance? 'Printed' and 'calico' point to a specific type of fabric, leading to words like CHINTZ.
Check Letter Count First: Always match your potential answer's letter count to the puzzle's requirement. If you think of 'TOILE' but the clue asks for 6 letters, it won't fit unless there's another common answer.
Look for Common Crossword Tropes: Certain words, especially those with unique spellings or specific cultural contexts (like 'CHINTZ' with its Indian origins), appear frequently. Familiarize yourself with these.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between calico and chintz?

Calico is a basic, unbleached cotton fabric. Chintz, on the other hand, is a type of calico (or similar cotton) that has been printed with a pattern (often floral) and typically glazed to give it a shiny finish and increased durability.

How can I identify a fabric as 'printed calico' in real life?

You would look for a plain-woven cotton fabric that has designs, patterns, or colors applied to its surface. If it also has a slight sheen or stiffness from a glaze, it's very likely to be chintz, which is a prime example of printed calico.

Are there any historical facts about 'chintz' relevant to crosswords?

Yes, chintz originated in India and became immensely popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries for its vibrant, colorfast prints, leading to its widespread use in home decor. Its exotic origin and historical significance often make it a rich source for crossword clues.