Velvet is a type of fabric known for its smooth, soft, and shiny quality but velvet is not made from a particular kind of fibre as some fabrics are. In fact, it can be made from anything, from natural fibres like silk, wool, and cotton, synthetic fibres like rayon or polyester, or a combination of both. Modern looms can handle many colours and variations of thread, and as such there is huge scope for pattern and detail to be woven into the fabric.