Cambric or chambray is a lightweight cotton cloth use as fabric for lace and needlework. Cambric, also known as batiste in a large part of the world, was was first used in Cambrai, France as early as 1595. It is possibly named after Baptiste of Cambrai. It is a closely woven, firm fabric with a slight glossy surface produced by calendering. Modern cambric is made from Egyptian or American cotton and sometimes flax, but also polymer fibres can be added. Cambric is also used as a coating for professional playing cards, to protect them for longer and make them easier to handle.