Surah

Surah fabric, showing strong twill texture. Source: Classic & Modern Fabrics (book)

Part of the ‘Antique Fabrics‘ series, this fabric isn’t necessarily extinct, but it was more popular in the past than the present.

A soft twilled silk or wool, similar to foulard, but heavier. The twill texture is very pronounced.

I’ve seen it listed as a dress and coat material in 19th century catalogs. Today, it seems to be used for men’s ties (when woven in silk) and upholstery (synthetic yarns, heavier weight).

Silk surah can be very slippery and thus challenging to sew.

If looking for a good-enough alternative, consider gabardine.