Shibori & Bandhani Scarves & Shawls

The name “Bandhani” derives from the Sanskrit term meaning “to tie.” Tied resist is a traditional technique that has been practiced in India for centuries.

Each dot is the result of creating a tiny peak in the cloth and then tightly wrapping thread around the peak to resist the dye. Artisans work with precision as they slowly pattern the entire cloth - a lengthy process with an exquisite outcome. In Japan, this type of shaped resist is known as shibori. In the West small tie-and-dye pieces were widely traded and became known as “bandanas” - after the term bandhani. 

To achieve multiple colours with this process requires skill and patience as each new colour needs either a new tie or a separate dip in the dyebath. The result of applying bandhani on silk is a sculptural textile with a unique life of its own.

Maiwa works directly with bandhani artisans from Rajasthan and the Kutch Desert of Gujarat, Western India.