A doily is a small decorative mat, usually made of lace or paper with intricate patterns cut or woven into it. You might see doilies placed under vases, lamps, or plates of cookies to protect furniture and add a fancy touch.

Traditional doilies are made by hand through crocheting or tatting, techniques that create delicate, snowflake-like patterns in white thread. Making a doily this way can take hours of careful work. These fabric doilies were especially popular in homes during the Victorian era and through the early 1900s, when people loved adding decorative touches to every surface.

Today you're more likely to see paper doilies at bakeries, where they line boxes or plates holding cakes and pastries. The pattern of holes gives them an elegant, old-fashioned look that makes even a simple cupcake feel special.

While some people consider doilies outdated, others treasure antique doilies as examples of impressive craftsmanship or use them in craft projects to create vintage-style decorations.