African wax fabrics, also known as Ankara fabric or Kitenge fabric, are vibrant and colorful cotton fabrics with unique patterns and designs. While they're not traditionally used for quilting in the same way as quilting cotton, some quilters do incorporate them into their projects for added flair and diversity. We have several quilt kits featuring African wax print fabrics from the Ubushobozi Cooperative, which supports a community of women in Rwanda, Africa. We are excited to share these authentic African wax batik fabric kits with you, as well as African fabrics inspired by the dazzling designs found in these communities.
African wax fabric is sometimes also referred to as African batik fabric, because it uses the same wax-resist dyeing technique used to make the traditional batik fabric prints found in Indonesia. These techniques were brought to Western African countries by Dutch colonists, hence you will also sometimes hear these fabrics referred to as Dutch wax prints.
African wax fabrics often feature bold and intricate patterns, and they are widely used in African fashion and traditional attire. They hold significant cultural and social meanings within African communities, with many African fabric designs featuring symbolic imagery that holds significance and conveys specific meanings. Symbols such as Adinkra symbols from Ghana or Nsibidi symbols from Nigeria may be used to convey concepts such as wisdom, strength, unity, or spirituality.
Quilting with African wax fabrics can add a bold and distinctive aesthetic to your quilt, making it stand out with its rich colors and intricate patterns. However, since these fabrics tend to be stiffer and have a different texture compared to traditional quilting cotton, it's essential to consider their characteristics when planning your quilt design and construction.
When using African wax prints for quilting, you may need to take extra care with cutting and sewing, as their stiffness can affect the accuracy of your piecing. Traditional African fabric is typically made from 100% cotton and their distinctive stiffness is due to the wax used in the dyeing process. They often have a crisp feel and may require prewashing to soften them before use in sewing or quilting projects.
When shopping for African fabric online, you will also encounter African-inspired prints that draw inspiration from African motifs, colors, and designs, but are created by manufacturers outside of Africa. These may mimic the aesthetic of African wax fabrics but are produced using different manufacturing techniques, such as digital printing or screen printing.
While these types of African print fabrics are inspired by African design elements, they may lack the authenticity and cultural significance of genuine African wax fabrics. However, if you are looking for African fabric by the yard, you may find more options to choose from in a greater range of materials, from cotton to synthetic blends.
At Missouri Star, can find both traditional and African print fabric by the yard & quilt kits to create home decor, accessories, bags, and more!
