There are three interpretations of the term tapestry:
A handwoven picture using a ribbed plain weave structure. The warp is traditionally of wool, cotton or linen. The weft, which is used to form the picture and covers the warp, is traditionally of wool.
A type of hand embroidery using a needle, threaded with wool or cotton thread, to sew into an open mesh, base canvas. Often referred to as cross-stitch embroidery, with variations called needlepoint, gros point or point de croix.
A Jacquard woven figured upholsterycloth. Constructed to produce a well defined, flat closely woven pattern.
The word tapestry is derived from the French word tapis meaning carpet or covering (for a table).