What is a difference between “ikat fabrics” and “ikat print fabrics”?
We often come across fabrics defined as “Ikat print fabrics” which leaves us a bit confused. What in the world is Ikat print? How is it different from Ikat fabric? These are questions we would like to cover in this post and hopefully clarify the difference.
Let’s start with Ikat terminology. Wikipedia defines Ikat as follows:
“ikat is a dyeing technique used to pattern textiles that employs resist dyeing on the yarns prior to dyeing and weaving the fabric. In ikat the resist is formed by binding individual yarns or bundles of yarns with a tight wrapping applied in the desired pattern (ikat means "to bind" in the Indonesian language). The yarns are then dyed. The bindings may then be altered to create a new pattern and the yarns dyed again with another colour. This process may be repeated multiple times to produce elaborate, multicolored patterns. When the dyeing is finished all the bindings are removed and the yarns are woven into cloth”
As you can see the ikat making process is as follows: 1) bind, 2) dye and 3) weave.
Textures and colors of Uzbek ikat fabrics
I have noticed that sometimes the best way to answer customers' questions is by making a short video. Oftentimes it is also a good way to communicate texture and colors of Uzbek ikat fabrics..
However, when it comes to colors things can get tricky.
First of all, we all have different screen resolutions and as such, we all see colors differently.
Secondly, the colors of the fabric depend on the lighting. We try to take photos in the natural light. However, indoors with artificial lighting the colors of Ikat fabrics will be different.
Free shipping on orders $99!
It looks like air shipping is getting somewhat normalized. Orders are reaching Americas and Europe within a somewhat reasonable timeframe. Hallelujah!
This being said, post office workers are still reluctant to give us a timeframe within which orders will reach a specific country. This is understandable because each country is handling its Covid-19 situation differently. From recent order deliveries we feel that shipping with registered air mail is going back to pre-pandemic days. That is delivery within 10-14 business days to major metropolitan areas. Rural areas may take longer. However, if you need your order by a certain date please contact us so we can arrange your shipping with DHL, FedEx or Aramex.
Bold ikat patterns of Uzbek ikat fabrics
In a variety of ikat fabrics made around the world one can identify Uzbek ikat fabrics by its bold ikat pattern. Ikat textiles traditions are not unique to Uzbekistan. Many other countries also have long established ikat weaving cultures. However, just like food and music can tell a lot about the a culture, the same holds true for fabrics and patterns.
A tiny bit about Uzbek culture:
Uzbeks are social. Very social. In Uzbekistan we believe that a tight knit supportive family is a foundation of good happy life. Uzbek families are usually large, especially in villages.Gatherings are celebrated widely with music, dancing and a lot of good food. Uzbeks in general like things that are vibrant, colorful and festive. This is very evident in clothing and bold ikat patterns of ikat fabrics made and worn in Uzbekistan.