How Ikats are made

Rolling yarn into balls from cotton using traditional simple tools is a meticulous process that honors age-old craftsmanship. In this traditional method, skilled artisans carefully spin raw cotton fibers into fine threads using handheld spindles or spinning wheels. Once the cotton is spun into yarn, it is then delicately wound by hand into neat, compact balls.

This method not only showcases the artisans’ dexterity and precision but also ensures the yarn’s quality and consistency. Each ball of yarn represents the culmination of patient labor and expertise, reflecting the artisan’s deep connection to their craft and the materials they work with.

The simplicity of these traditional tools highlights the sustainable and artisanal approach to textile production, where every step, from raw material to finished product, is executed with meticulous care and respect for tradition.

Firstly, the warp yarns (lengthwise threads) are carefully measured and set up on the loom. This involves threading each individual yarn through the heddles and reed of the loom, ensuring they are evenly spaced and tensioned. The warp yarns are then tied to the loom frame or weighted at the bottom to maintain tension throughout the weaving process.

Once the warp is secured, the weaver begins to interlace the weft yarns (widthwise threads) across the warp threads, passing them through using a shuttle or other weaving tools. The weaver uses a combination of techniques, such as plain weave or more intricate patterns like ikat or supplementary weft, to create the desired design and texture in the fabric.