Traditional Nigerian Adire Batik
A traditional Nigerian Adire fabric, given the color (blue) and its patterns. It features the following designs: Cycle of Life; Talking Drum (celebration); Guinea Corn (the hand that feeds never lacks); and Mirror (reflection of life). We sourced this fabric from a student-entrepreneur named Onyinye, who you can learn about below. This fabric is soft and lightweight with excellent drape. We’ve made masks with it; it can be used for garments, accessories, and crafts.
Handmade in Nigeria by Adire Fashion Place
Width: 45 inches
Length varies; sold by the yard (36 inches)
Care instructions: To preserve the color and life of these prints, machine wash in cold water with like colors and hang to dry. We recommend washing your fabric before use to rid any wax residue.
Learn more:
We sourced this traditional blue and black fabric from a Nigerian brand run by a student-entrepreneur named Onyinye. She uses a combination of traditional methods to make her prints, such as batik, free-hand drawing, and Adire (“tie-dye”). Read our interview of Onyinye below, which delves more into her techniques and inspiration!
What is batik?
Batik is an indigenous method of making fabric by hand, which is practiced all over the world. Batikers create designs and then stamp the designs onto fabric using candle wax. Sometimes they will draw on the fabric by free-hand, using a stencil or other instruments. The cloth is can be dyed before or after the stamping process. Afterward, it is placed in boiling water and then washed, revealing the stamped or hand-drawn designs. Designs range from vintage, cultural symbols to modern and abstract designs.