In case you are wondering, ikat scarves are those beautiful, handmade accessories from exotic India and Indonesia. They are made by native craftsmen who are well-versed in this traditional weaving craft that is handed down from generation to generation. These beautiful shawls can be found worn as fashion accessories on the catwalk or displayed in the latest fashion magazines.
The Indonesian word, ikat, which means to tie, has given its name to the unique process by which this fabric is made. The threads are bundled together and tied before dying so that the dye only reaches certain parts of the threads. This results in highly original and unique designs, colors and patterns.
Once tied, the bundles of threads are left in dye to soak. Once they are dry, they are tied as warp threads in a weaving loom. Then the weft threads are inserted into the weave and a unique pattern results. Depending on the number of colors used and the intricacy of the design, this entire process can take as much as three months.
Even more complicated are the fabrics made with double ikat thread. For the double thread design, the weaver also bundles the weft threads together and dyes them. Afterwards, the warp and weft threads are interwoven so precisely that the colors and designs match up perfectly to create the desired effect. The double thread design requires a great deal of skill on the part of the weaver and thus, the increase in the cost of this type of fabric.
There are several ways to tell whether a design is authentic. One way is by the fact that each design in the fabric will have feathered edges which is the result of the tie-dying process. Another way to tell if what you are buying is authentic is by looking at the opposite side. Genuine woven fabrics will have the weave showing all the way through. On the other hand, printed or stamped fabrics will only show on one side.
No one knows exactly where these exceptional fabrics first originated as they have been found in many places around the globe. One thing is sure, though, those made in India and Indonesia are the most popular and most sought after. The ones that come are from Indonesia or India are usually made of cotton. Those who are looking for luxurious vintage silk designs will go after those from Central Asia, Uzbekistan, which is part of the old Silk Road to China. Traditionally, single girls would save these opulent shawls for their wedding day.
Nowadays, these beautiful items have become the fashion accessory of choice and are highly in demand for both formal and informal wear. The cotton designs can be worn as shawls or slung over a casual t-shirt or blouse. Those made of silk make a dramatic accent for formal wear when worn as an evening wrap with a solid-colored, floor length gown.
Ikat scarves make a unique fashion statement and can be conveniently bought online. There is no need to fly to the exotic East to make your purchases. Now with online shopping, you can easily browse through designs, fabrics and colors and make your choice easily and conveniently. Besides, prices are much lower and you are guaranteed of secure shipping that is low-cost and convenient.
The Indonesian word, ikat, which means to tie, has given its name to the unique process by which this fabric is made. The threads are bundled together and tied before dying so that the dye only reaches certain parts of the threads. This results in highly original and unique designs, colors and patterns.
Once tied, the bundles of threads are left in dye to soak. Once they are dry, they are tied as warp threads in a weaving loom. Then the weft threads are inserted into the weave and a unique pattern results. Depending on the number of colors used and the intricacy of the design, this entire process can take as much as three months.
Even more complicated are the fabrics made with double ikat thread. For the double thread design, the weaver also bundles the weft threads together and dyes them. Afterwards, the warp and weft threads are interwoven so precisely that the colors and designs match up perfectly to create the desired effect. The double thread design requires a great deal of skill on the part of the weaver and thus, the increase in the cost of this type of fabric.
There are several ways to tell whether a design is authentic. One way is by the fact that each design in the fabric will have feathered edges which is the result of the tie-dying process. Another way to tell if what you are buying is authentic is by looking at the opposite side. Genuine woven fabrics will have the weave showing all the way through. On the other hand, printed or stamped fabrics will only show on one side.
No one knows exactly where these exceptional fabrics first originated as they have been found in many places around the globe. One thing is sure, though, those made in India and Indonesia are the most popular and most sought after. The ones that come are from Indonesia or India are usually made of cotton. Those who are looking for luxurious vintage silk designs will go after those from Central Asia, Uzbekistan, which is part of the old Silk Road to China. Traditionally, single girls would save these opulent shawls for their wedding day.
Nowadays, these beautiful items have become the fashion accessory of choice and are highly in demand for both formal and informal wear. The cotton designs can be worn as shawls or slung over a casual t-shirt or blouse. Those made of silk make a dramatic accent for formal wear when worn as an evening wrap with a solid-colored, floor length gown.
Ikat scarves make a unique fashion statement and can be conveniently bought online. There is no need to fly to the exotic East to make your purchases. Now with online shopping, you can easily browse through designs, fabrics and colors and make your choice easily and conveniently. Besides, prices are much lower and you are guaranteed of secure shipping that is low-cost and convenient.
No comments:
Post a Comment