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ikat

ikat

9.9
A way of making cloth by dyeing threads first to create blurred patterns
  • noun
  • /ˈiːkɑːt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : técnica ikat
  • Shopkeepers displayed a variety of ikat textiles, each with unique patterns and vibrant colors.

Examples

  • In Nuapatna Village, ikat (tie-dye) weavers create geometric patterns and highly stylized fish, deer, and border motifs on cotton and silk fabrics.

    Academic text (2006)
  • The ikat fabric in her dress showcased intricate designs that captivated everyone at the party.

  • The artisan explained how to create beautiful patterns using the ikat technique before weaving the cloth.

How Patterned

ikat
  • Specialized
9.9
to yarn-dye
  • Specialized
7.8
printing
31 1.0
plain-woven
  • Specialized
4.9

Surface Forms

ikat singular
ikats plural

Etymology

Ikat comes from the Malay and Indonesian word ikat, which means 'to tie'. The word refers to the technique of tying yarns before dyeing to make patterns, which is why ikat designs have their smoky, blurred edges.