The specific origin of the word comes from a sub-alpine species of antelope native to European mountain ranges, the hide of which was originally used to produce a particular kind of supple leather known as Chamois. Today, what is often referred to as chamois leather is more typically produced from the hide of domestic goat or sheep. As a material it has a range of uses, but because of its absorbant properties and being non-abrasive, it is commonly often used for cleaning and polishing. Chamois cloth is a cotton product and only related to the similarily named animal/leather product by common characteristics. (smooth sueded finish and absorbancy). Modern day Chamois cloth is a Northeastern classic that started as outdoor wear. (most likely due to its original introduction as a shirt by the L.L. Bean company during the 1920's. A company that especially early on, sold straightforward high quality products to the hunting and workwear markets) Chamois cloth is very similar, but often more substantial than flannal. The difference usually being that chamois starts with a heavier and more tightly woven fabric before it is brushed. Woven using either a plain or twill weave, but the weave is hidden by napping on both sides (slightly heavier on the face).