Texture

Texture in writing describes the tactile qualities of surfaces and materials: smooth, rough, slick, grainy, plush, ridged. It anchors sensory scenes and helps readers feel objects and fabrics rather than merely see them.

Practical guidance

• Use texture sparingly but specifically: one precise adjective ("cool silk", "rough denim") is stronger than a list of vague descriptors.
• Combine texture with temperature and movement: "the silk was cool against her palm" gives a richer sensory cue than "the silk felt nice".
• Let texture reveal character: a preference for certain textures can signal upbringing, class, or personal comfort.

Writing exercises

• Describe the same dress using texture-focused language (silk vs cotton vs lace) and note how tone shifts.

Links

• Texture combinations
• Sensory detail