HISTORY OF ANKARA FABRICS AFRICAN PRINTS

HISTORY OF ANKARA FABRICS AFRICAN PRINTS. 

African prints are known for its intricate composition of designs that portray the culture, tradition, and history of Africans. 

The textile used to make African prints is called Ankara fabric that is also referred as African wax prints fabric, Holland wax, or Dutch wax. The Ankara fabric is known for its colorful African prints, and is deeply associated with African clothing. One of the best things about Ankara fabric is the intensity of its African prints does not change compared to other printed textiles that fade quickly. This is because of the “wax resistant” technique used in printing the textile. 

Would you believe that the African textiles aren't originated in Africa? In 1846, there was a high demand for printed cotton, so Dutch entrepreneur Pieter Fentener Van Vlissingen mechanized the method used to make prints on batiks—a popular cloth worn in Indonesia. Yes, the African textile that is known as ‘Kitenge’ in East Africa and ‘Ankara’ in West Africa was first produced in Indonesia. 

The method of producing African print fabric is called batik, for where designs are printed onto the cloth using wax before using dye. You’ll notice the crackling effect on the African textile, and it is caused by the wax-resist dyeing technique. His company, Vlisco, introduced the printed textile to Ghana, and the fabric has gained an African identity. 

The advancement in technology made the printed textile accessible. In fact, African fashion designers helped to make the African prints and textiles more popular. When it comes to African fashion, the imperfections of African prints are considered unique and beautiful, along with textile’s origins and colors. A great thing, technology helps fashion designers to create their modern take on African prints through their designs and collections, contributing to the evolution of African prints. 

 The beautiful designs created by African designers using the Ankara fabric has made it one of the most sought-after fabrics in the world.

Many years ago, the best that could be achieved with the Ankara fabric is the traditional Iro and Buba. But today, the African print is used to make a lot of fashion items which include blazers, gowns, blouses, swim suit, trousers, among others.

It is also used to make ear rings, slippers, sandals, bags, phone cases and other accessories.

Most celebrated persons in both Africa and Europe have also taken to the new Ankara fashion trend. They have been spotted in public rocking the African print on several occasions.

Ankara print fabrics are usually sold per yard, 6 yards or 12 yards. The fabric company, product and registration number is printed on the selvage of the fabric, to notify people of the quality and to protect the designs from imitators.