Fabrics worn in contact with the skin sometimes evoke unpleasant sensations of prickle and itch. This report describes in general terms the findings of a comprehensive study of the causes of prickle from fabrics. It also discusses factors influencing sensitivity to prickle and the skin reactions which are sometime a consequence of irritation from prickly fabrics. In providing an understanding of fabric-evoked prickle, this report should help dispel the widely held misconception that prickle, itch and skin reactions caused by wool are associated with allergy to wool. Some preliminary findings on the effects of fibre and fabric properties on prickle are briefly discussed.