Materials, Texture, and Surface Qualities

Carved

Surface ornament of wood shaped or cut into decorative forms; adds depth and detail.

Glossy

Shiny, reflective surface sheen.

Hand

The way a material feels to the touch; tactile qualities when manipulated.

Matte

Non-reflective, low-sheen finish that diffuses light.

Opaque

A material that blocks light fully; not see-through.

Organic

Natural forms, textures, or materials; irregular or curvilinear.

Ornamented

Decorated object with applied detail or embellishment.

Plush

Soft, thick, and luxurious texture.

Rough

Coarse texture; tactile and visually rugged, associated with informality.

Stained

A transparent but colored finish applied to a material (typically wood) that is absorbed into it.

Textured

Surface with tactile variation.

Toothy

Slightly coarse or heavy surface quality (often on paper or fabric).

Translucent

A material or surface that allows light to pass through but obscures visibility of any detail.

Transparent

A material or surface that is fully see-through.

Wood Grain

The visible vein pattern of natural fibers in timber.