Pike, imperial stitch or marseille is a fractionated fabric, normally used with cotton yarn and mixture, which is characterised by its relief patterns, such as rhombus or honeycomb.
Pike weaving was developed by the Lancashire cotton industry in the late 18th century as a mechanised technique for weaving double cloths with a heavy weft of yarns included.
It was originally used to make imitations of the Provence yarn duvets made in Marseille. Today it is a very versatile type of fabric used for curtains, bedding and even upholstery.