HISTORY
In England, during the 18th century, the mistress of the house uses a special linen drying cloth to dry the bone china tea which are precious and expensive. But it was only during the Industrial Revolution that mass production of tea towel started.

STYLES AND PATTERNS
From being a simple piece of cloth to dry dishes, tea towel had evolved to attractive linens. Tea towels are of diverse patterns, they are embroidered or woven. They come in different colors, stripes or polka dots. Sometimes they have scalloped edge. They are also hand-stitched with appliqués and embroidery.

MATERIALS USED
The main purpose of tea towel is to absorb the water from the dishes, so it has to be soft and absorbent. They should also be durable. Tea towels are mostly made from:

• Cotton
• Linen
• Terrycloth
• Microfiber

USES
The main purpose of tea towel or dish towel is for drying crystal, dinnerware and fine bone china, etc. after washing. Highly embellished tea towels lend color to a kitchen and makes kitchen look more inviting and attractive.