The leaf-shaped spaces are where the rayon velvet pile gets “burned” away from the silk backing. I think this fabric was 18% silk. The Procion dye is meant for plant fibers but the silk takes a little color anyways even though it’s a protein fiber. I bought a wool remnant as a backing fabric and to unravel it at the ends to make fringe. (I love fringe) The instructor gave us nice handouts with good step-by-step instructions plus online resources for supplies. I am getting more scarves plus looking for some yardage that’s got a higher ratio of silk:rayon to see if it drapes better and is stronger.