Ikats

Ikat (literally, "tied") is a technique of weaving threads that are pre-dyed in the desired pattern. Bundles of threads are tightly wrapped to resist the dye, dipped in the colour, dried, and so on for each colour. The bundles of threads are made (by winding on a frame as wide as the loom) to fit exactly when woven.
The low wages available for the weavers - a sarong which takes about a day to make, like the one shown in these photographs, may sell for as little as $10 - and the spread of Western styles of dress, threaten techniques such as Ikat and handmade Batik with extinction.
See Books on Ikat, Indonesian Textiles, carpets, weavings and other natural patterns

Dyeing Ikat (27k)

Ikat Bundles (31k)

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All images and text (c) Ian Alexander 1996-2005
Please obtain my written permission for commercial use