What is ikkat print?

Ikat is a dyeing technique used to pattern fabrics that employs a resist dyeing process on either the warp or weft fibers. The technique is also known as “bandhunau” in India. The ikkat pattern is created by first binding certain areas of the yarns with a tight wrap before dyeing them. This is done to prevent the dye from penetrating the fibers and staining them. The process can be repeated multiple times with different colors, resulting in a pattern that is both complex and colorful.

Ikkat print is often used in traditional Indian textiles and is highly valued for its intricate patterns and vivid colors. Ikkat is used to create everything from saris and scarves to dresses and upholstery fabrics. The technique is particularly popular in places like Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat in India, where skilled artisans spend long hours creating intricate and beautiful ikkat fabrics.

Ikkat patterns have been popular for centuries, with the earliest examples dating back to the fourth century B.C. Today, ikkat prints are highly sought after by collectors, fashion designers, and textile enthusiasts around the world. They are prized for their exquisite detail and unique aesthetic that blends traditional techniques with modern design sensibilities.