The article describes all aspects of the gigging or napping of woollen fabrics with particular reference to Italian expertise and machinery. Gigging or napping is the process of brushing the fabric surface with small hooks or wires so as to produce a nap. This was originally done using teasel heads and historical records show that its was done as early as 1368. The article gives a historical overview of the process, and describes the different kinds of napping machines; those using teasels and those using metal wires. The range of effects obtainable by napping is noted, and the relationship between the characteristics of woollen fabrics and the possibility of producing a pile by napping is discussed. The different types of napping are described, and defects and damage revealed or caused by napping are noted. Some metallic napping machines currently produced by Italian manufacturers are presented.