African fabrics are characterized by the use of mostly colorful, vibrant designs. Many designs are known in the fashion of African countries. In this way, over time, the African fabrics have become a well known concept, which nowadays is conquering its popularity all over the world!
Nothing says African fabrics like the traditional West African wax print fabric from Mitex. Combining striking bold designs with beautiful and bright colours, our vast selection of wax prints brings together much-loved traditional patterns with contemporary motifs which are gaining in popularity across Nigeria and West Africa.
Origins and Development
African wax fabrics originated at the beginning of the 19th century. They are derived from the batik fabrics from the former Dutch East Indies. The manual technique for making batik fabrics was automated in this period by some Dutch entrepreneurs. Initially these fabrics were intended for the market in the Dutch East Indies, but this did not work. By coincidence, these fabrics became popular in West Africa, which made the prints more suited to the demand and circumstances of the local people in various African countries.
How African Wax Prints are Made by Hand: The Batik Method in Ghana
The Wax Print Technique
Many people think that the final product (the African wax print fabric) contains a kind of stiff wax layer, this is not the case. The term wax comes from the coloring process of the fabrics, where the colors are applied to specific parts of the fabric, by shielding the other parts with a wax layer (nowadays mostly resin). This wax layer is then removed, and after the whole process the fabric is still thoroughly cleaned.
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Characteristics of African Fabrics
The authentic African fabrics are double sided printed on 100% cotton by means of the "wax block" principle. The fabrics almost always have a width of between 45 and 48 inches (114 - 122 cm). African fabrics are standard made with a total length of 6 yards (548 cm). This is partly due to the fact that from this standard length both a skirt, a top and a headscarf or sling could be made.
Because our customers use these fabrics for many more applications, we offer the fabrics starting from a 1 yard (91cm) length. The possibilities of African fabrics are literally endless. Everywhere you want to apply color you can use these fabrics.
African wax print fabric is perfect for making your own colorful clothes. 100% quality cotton which is printed on both sides.
Applications of African Fabrics
Of course the fabrics are often used to make beautiful clothes like dresses, skirts and tops. Apart from the application for clothing, the fabrics are often used to make headscarves, baby slings, jewelry and even shoes. Also, these fabrics are used for upholstering furniture, making patchwork, quilting, upholstering lamps, making tablecloths, making works of art, decorating parties and so on!
African Fabric Designs at Empire Textiles
At Empire Textiles our range of West African wax-printed fabrics display the highest quality craftsmanship from some of the best designers around. With labels such as Mitex Holland, Julius Holland, Holland Gold Edition and Impress Prints to name just a few, our selection of wax-printed textiles combines modern, funky styles with traditional West African patterns.
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With a range of African fabric designs from simple floral to bold statement shapes and even the psychedelic, these wax prints are innovative, bright, beautiful and fun! Cut to 6-yard (5.486m) measurements, the generous sizing of these pieces allows you to create an entire ensemble, using vibrant and unique designs to create an individual look.
African Wax prints look great as garments, bags, and scarves and can be used with any other fabric project. Whatever your requirements, at Empire Textiles we also provide a variety of light and heavier woven African fabrics. All our pieces are made to the most exacting standards, comprising careful attention to detail with embroidered and metallic finishes for a truly radiant texture.
At Empire Textiles we always offer the best quality at low prices.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% quality cotton |
| Printing | Double sided printed |
| Standard Length | 6 yards (548 cm) |
| Width | 45-48 inches (114-122 cm) |
| Applications | Clothing, headscarves, upholstery, art, and more |
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