2/18/11

Ikat: Threads of Life



Ikat (pronounced “ee- caht”, not “eye-cat” )is a textile which is essentially made using a ancient “tie-dye” method.  The technical name is actually “resist dyeing”.  Part of the threads are tied in bundles and then dyed before they are woven together. 


Typically, it is the warp threads (the ones going crosswise) that are dyed, but occasionally the weft (vertical) threads are also dyed. This is known as double ikat.

True ikat textiles are hand-woven on narrow looms. A pattern is created from the resist dyeing as the threads are loomed together. Hand-woven fabrics have a completely different feel and appearance than fabrics made from a machine power-loom production.


Today designers in both fashion and interiors, use ikat in all forms to express their style.... 



Ikat bowl by Ginori Michael C Fina




Madeline Weinrib's Daphne Blue Ikat




Anthony Todd



Oscar de la Renta showcase room at Lee Jofa




Hot Pink silk Ikat upholstered walls by Muriel Brandolini



Blue and white Ikat dining chairs




"Ties that Bind: An Exhibition Catalogue of Ikat Fabrics" from HERE



Antique Silk Cotton Ikat




Kelly Wearstler's Bengal Bazaar




Ikat-patterned rug




Java dessert plate from Home, James Collection




Study designed by Philip Gorrivan


1 comment:

  1. I love the study by Philip Gorrivan- that day bed is amazing- I love the combination of fabrics with the collection of artwork.

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