Ikat Tribal Village - Viscose Fabric

Ikat is a traditional technique where the threads are dyed before the cloth is woven, which gives the patterns their soft, feathered edges. This print borrows that look: rows of diamonds in teal, olive and deep red, each outlined with tiny yellow dots, with the slightly blurred edges that make ikat so recognisable. It’s bold and graphic, but the earthy colours keep it warm and easy to wear, and it’s the kind of design that gets noticed.

It makes you think of market stalls, sun-warmed streets and long lunches in the shade, so it’s made for a travel wardrobe. Teal and olive look rich in strong light, and the red adds some warmth, so it works with a tan and with plain white linen. The viscose is soft and lightweight, with a silky feel.

What to make

• Dresses: shirt dresses, wrap dresses, tea dresses and maxi dresses
• Blouses and tops: relaxed shirts, camisoles and tie-neck tops
• Skirts: gathered, tiered and bias-cut styles
• Trousers and jumpsuits: wide-leg trousers, culottes and jumpsuits

Sewing tips

• Wash gently before cutting, as viscose can shrink
• Cut single layer and match the pattern at the side seams and centre front
• Choose a fine, sharp needle and a medium stitch length
• Neaten seams to stop fraying, with French seams, an overlocker, a zigzag stitch or bias binding
• Press on a low heat from the reverse, with a pressing cloth if you have one

• Width: 140cm/55" (approx)
• Composition: 100% Viscose
• Fabric Type: Viscose, printed
• Colour: Multicoloured

✔Machine washable at 30°C or lower, on a gentle cycle
✔Wash separately the first time, then with similar colours
✔Do not use bleach
✔Do not tumble dry
✔Dry flat or line dry in the shade
✔Iron on a low heat, on the reverse
✔Always test a small sample first to check your preferred washing method

Viscose is made from plant-based cellulose, and this fabric is made to be worn and washed for years. Choosing a well-made fabric with a classic geometric print, and caring for it gently, helps your handmade wardrobe last.