Indigo Dyed Discharge Printed Fabric has a long history but is now produced only a couple of times per year, mostly for traditional ceremonial uses in rural African areas. A renewed interest in this traditional national heritage by young South African designers brings new designs and techniques to the limited manufacturing process. A commitment is made by Da Gama Textiles to create jobs, support the community and share profits with the plant workers. You can take part in this dedication while you get rare designs for your creations.
Shweshwe, a historical name for this artistic fabric, is now available in North America in limited quantities. Fabric is imported directly from Da Gama Textiles and ShweshweUS guarantees that you get only the original Shweshwe. The fabric is produced twice a year and marketed under such brands as Three Cats, Fancy Prints, Three Leopards and Toto. Shweshwe is promoted by Hatched in Africa and other prominent quilters and embroiderers, such as Santi Nuss.
The process is still done traditionally whereby 100% cotton fabric is fed through copper rollers which have patterns etched on the surface, allowing a weak acid solution to be fed into the fabric, bleaching out the distinctive white designs. This creates a beautiful pattern that cannot be artificially reproduced. Da Gama still has the old technology to produce the copper rollers so new designs can be continuously created even though runs are limited.
You can now get African Shweshwe fabric direct from local stock for your unique creations. For fashion, crafts, quilts and other fabric based projects that need a unique look and feel; ShweshweUS provides the information and materials you need for your sewing, quilting and embroidery projects. ShwesweUS obtains the various fabrics directly from the manufacturer and must make a long term commitment to maintain an inventory that meets your immediate needs. Here is where you will find the largest selection of patterns and colors, obtain the service you deserve and get the best price with the fastest delivery.
Our recent booth in West Palm Beach, Florida!
