|
Ikats
Intricate warp-ikat fabrics have been produced by a unique method
of wrap effects creating a beautiful muted look of a water effect
prints. To create an ikat fabric, the artisan first stretches warp
yarns on a frame, and binds selected areas with raffia. The warp
bundles are then dyed, producing resist patterns wherever the dye
can not penetrate. Then selected areas are unbound, other areas
are bound, and the yarns are immersed in a second dye bath. Finally,
the bindings are removed, the warp yarns are placed on a simple
backstrap loom, and the fabric is woven with a plain weft. Through
this painstaking process, sophisticated textile art is produced
with both drama and subtlety.
|