Fabric, or a city?
That is the question we are all asking.
I am sure that by now you have googled "Ankara" and answers have appeared that involve both the city and the fabric. Well, today, we shall expound on the Ankara fabric. Sorry tourists.
WHAT IS ANKARA?
Ankara is a fabric that is mostly worn in Africa. Many may call it by other names such as African prints, Dutch wax prints, or African wax prints. Though known and worn in Africa, Ankara has its origins in Northwestern Europe - Netherlands.
WHEN WAS ANKARA MADE?
Ankara entered the African clothing market in the 19th century when the Dutch manufactured the fabric for the Indian textile market, which ended up not doing as well as they thought it would. They then decided to take the print to Africa. Deriving inspiration from native Indonesian techniques and Akwete cloth designs, Ankara became the print that we now know today.
WHAT IS ANKARA MADE FROM?
The fabric is made from 100% cotton cloth. The process that goes into making it is called Batik, a wax-resisting dyeing technique. A block matching applies wax to both sides of the cloth, creating different unique patterns on both sides of the clothes. It is then sewn together to form a dress, trousers, shirt, or whatever clothing that you desire.
In the past, Ankara fabric was regarded as a material that only people of the lower class would wear, but now, it is seen as more than just that. The Ankara design is commonly worn to celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, and the like. It is also used to make household items, such as pillows throws, duvets, and table runs.
Ankara is a pattern that unites Africa. It represents African traditions, fashion, and so much more. Get your Ankara products here at Artisan Duka: https://www.artisanduka.com/search?q=Ankara
Written By: Alika Nzimbi
Comments