Calico/ˈkælɪkəʊ/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Unprocessed Cotton Calico refers to fabric in its raw, unprocessed state, before coloring. The craft store sells calico by the yard. Pro Tip 2/2Homemade Projects Often used in arts and crafts, calico is popular for handmade items. They used calico to make handcrafted dolls.