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Washing Instructions for Ikat and Handspuns
The debate about how, when and if traditional textiles need to be cleaned is ongoing. Ceremonial "adat" pieces are never washed, just dusted and aired after being worn to the ceremony and restored. Textiles that receive daily wear are rinsed in clear water on the morning of a sunny day and hung in the shade to dry.
These textiles have been handwoven using a centuries-old technique, the backstrap loom. This traditional loom consists of little more than two sticks in the ground and a harness worn by the weaver. Weaving is an activity that requires daylight and spare time, of which a farmwife has little. It could take months or years from conception to completion. For this reason, most of my textiles were cleaned if necessary before export.
These extraordinary tribal artworks are as resilient as the farmers who create them. With a bit of tender care, they can last for generations!
Natural Dye Characteristics
Natural dyes, especially indigo, are sensitive to environmental factors. Indigo will soften in tone with repeated washing and exposure to UV light. Textiles may "bleed" during the first washes and this is normal. It is important to rinse until the water runs clear to avoid bleeding.
Washing Recommendations
For best results, beat the textile on a smooth rock by the ocean under the light of a full moon.
Alternatively, we recommend a gentle hand wash in lukewarm water using a mild soap. After washing, block the fabric by gently wringing it out in a towel, lay it flat to dry.
Additional Reading:
Textiles of Western Timor
Regional Variations in Historical Perspective
Ruth Yeager & Mark Jacobsen
White Lotus Press
ISBN 974-4800-01-1 pbk White Lotus Co. Ltd., Bangkok
A comprehensive guide to everything that you need to know about textiles from West Timor. Five stars!
Splendid Symbols - Textiles and Tradition in Indonesia
Mattiebelle Gittinger
Oxford University Press
ISBN 0 19 588956 8
A great introduction to the rich textile traditions of Indonesia, however, the Timor section is sparse.
Living with Decorative Textiles
Tribal Arts from Africa, Asia and the Americas
Nicholas Bernard & James Merrell
Thames and Husdson
ISBN 0 500 27821 0
Full of great ideas for how to display, live with and enjoy your treasures
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