Clothiers implements

Clothiers' implements

Clothiers' implements. The habick was a tool used for holding the cloth firm whilst it was operated on by the teazel or other instrument. The word is probably a corruption of the 'habiting hook,' and it is represented on the arms of the Company, as shewn in the margin.

The teazel is referred to elsewhere, under thistle. The shears for cropping the pile or nap for rendering the surface smooth will be found under the implements of Weavers.

The preen appears to be an instrument which was used for much the same purpose as the teazel. It does not, however, occur in the insignia of any of the companies, but it is found in the arms of a private person, where it seems to have been chosen for the sake of the name.

Azure, a preen or--PREENER.

Sable, a chevron ermine between two habicks in chief argent and a teazel in base slipped or--CLOTHWORKERS' Company, London[originally incorporated 1482, by the style of the Fraternity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin of the Sheermen of London; confirmed in 1528, but incorporated as Clothworkers' Company by Queen Elizabeth: arms granted 1530].