Cloth & Materials (sage study)

Cloth & materials is a sage study in the field of Textiles, giving a thorough study of fibres and the cloth making process, from cultivation and care of plants and animals through the fulling and weaving of the cloth itself. A scholar trained in Cloth & Materials gains expertise in identifying fibres, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different weaves, and recognising quality workmanship. This knowledge extends beyond simple fabric production and into practical applications, such as selecting the best textiles for specific climates, reinforcing garments for durability and even assessing the market value of rare or exotic fabrics.

The study of Cloth & Materials includes the classification of fibres into plant-based, such as flax, cotton and hemp; animal-based, including wool, silk and alpaca; and synthetically treated materials, such as waxed cloth or oilskin. Each fibre type requires different preparation methods, from retting and carding plant stalks to shearing and spinning animal fleece. Dyes and mordants also fall within this study, detailing how colourfastness is achieved using natural materials like indigo, madder and cochineal.

Beyond individual fibres, this study covers the range of weaving techniques used across different cultures. Methods such as tabby weave, twill and brocade are studied for their unique properties, along with specialty processes like felt-making, knitting and embroidery. Scholars also learn the mechanics of looms, from simple warp-weighted frames to advanced treadle looms capable of producing complex patterns. An understanding of Cloth & Materials is invaluable to artisans, merchants and tailors, as well as those who rely on durable, functional textiles in daily life — sailors in need of strong canvas, hunters requiring wool that insulates even when wet, or nobles seeking luxurious, finely woven garments. The study also extends into trade and economics, with an awareness of how textile production influences regional commerce, guild control and taxation on rare fibres such as silk.

In practical terms, a sage trained in Cloth & Materials may be able to determine the origin of a bolt of fabric by its weave and dye, recognise counterfeit materials, or even advise on repairing or altering garments for improved function. Knowledge in this study is often sought by those working in fine tailoring, upholstery or cloth merchanting, but it can also serve those navigating the complex networks of textile trade and craftsmanship.

Sage Abilities

The sage abilities below are those acquired by a character through the study, according to status.

Amateur Status

• Embroider: gives skill in the use of a needle and thread to decorate fabric with ornamental stitching. This includes simple techniques such as chain stitch, running stitch and cross-stitch, allowing for the embellishment of garments, banners and linens with patterns, symbols or personal markings. A character can replicate insignias, forge guild markings or disguise worn clothing to pass unnoticed in unfamiliar company.

• Mend Clothes: allows the reinforcement of seams, patch worn fabric and darn holes to extend the lifespan of garments. Basic mending skills include securing loose threads, replacing missing buttons and making discreet repairs that restore functionality without compromising the garment's appearance. The character can repair weather-worn cloaks, keep padded armour intact or repurpose damaged cloth into usable materials for camp or trade. Skill gives a +2 saving throw for all clothing items in the party.

• Weave: enables the use of a loom or the ability to interlace threads by hand to produce cloth. A weaver learns to maintain proper tension, recognise basic weave patterns and produce even, functional fabric suitable for clothing, household textiles or trade. The skill allows a character to create makeshift rope from unwoven fabric or fashion cloth wrappings for supplies and wounds in the field.

Authority Status

• Dye: enables the preparation and application of natural dyes to fibres, yarns and finished cloth. A dyer learns to extract pigments from plants, minerals and insects, apply mordants to fix colours and layer dyes to create a range of hues and patterns. A character skilled in dyeing can replicate heraldic colours, disguise fabrics to appear as something else or restore faded textiles to preserve their value and meaning.

• Fine Tailoring: allows the cutting, shaping and stitching of fine fabrics into well-fitted clothing suited for nobility, merchants or officials. This includes knowledge of tailoring techniques, fabric drape and decorative finishes such as pleating, embroidery or lacework. A character with this skill can craft formal attire for court appearances, discreetly alter clothing for disguise or appraise garments for their quality and worth in trade.

• Protective Quilting: designs layering and stitching of cloth to create garments to absorb impact and provide insulation, such as the chausses and hauberk (padded armour). This includes sewing multiple layers of fabric, stuffing materials for cushioning and reinforcing vulnerable areas with stitching techniques that distribute force. A character trained in this skill can construct gambesons for personal defense, line metal armour for comfort or repurpose available cloth into makeshift protection in desperate situations.

See Bard Sage Abilities