The most satisfactory kind of pattern is a small geometrical one, consisting of some simple form, a leaf or flower, conventionally treated. For staircases, passages, etc., papers in imitation of wood or marble are most commonly used, and these can be preserved from much casual injury by varnishing. Marble papers are usually hung in large blocks, the lines of demarcation, horizontal and vertical being traced, with the aid of a straight edge, in black or brown. For sitting-rooms satin papers, or papers with a glossy surface, are generally used. Papers in which gold is introduced are expensive if they are worth anything at all. In cheap gilt papers, the gold, which is most likely Dutch metal, soon tarnishes and changes as time goes on from a dull copper red to black. It is good taste to have the ceiling paper light in color and with a subdued figure to harmonize with the sides.