NEW HANDMADE African mudcloth portfolio

SquareTrade © AP6.0

Mudcloth is a fabric traditional in Africa.  The cloth is first handspun, then handwoven, usually of cotton and by the men of the village.  The loom is hand-held and produces small strips which are then combined to form larger pieces of cloth.  The women usually do the designing.  First the item is soaked in a tea from the Bogolon tree native to Mali, Africa.  This stain acts like a fixative for the colors to come.  Then organic substances are mixed with soils (hence the "mud") and allowed to age, often for up to a year, until they reach the correct formulation.  This process also takes years for the creators to learn, as not only hues, but also their reactions with cloth and fixatives must be known.  Finally, they are individually applied according to the artist's desire.  Various layers and combinations are used.  Next, the work is soaked in a solution which brings out the patterns.  If the color white is required, these areas need extra attention to rebleach with a soda.  

    All patterns and colors on mudcloth have meaning.  Often they are not the same across various areas.  They may stand for status, people group, or even character.  Of course, interpretation may always be made by the observer!  This unique portfolio is black with white markings which symbolize bravery.  It is lined in black cotton on the inside, which is reached with three snaps and a zipper.  The handle, sides, and bottom are all of the same fabric.  This satchel is actually appropriate for either a man or a woman, and would make an excellent gift for the tradition-minded professional. For other wonderful mudcloth pieces, please be sure to view our full listings!

As this case is handmade, variations in tone, pattern, and size may occur.  These only add to the one-of-a-kind feel of your original!  Pictures are representative of the theme.  Measurements are approximate. 

Condition:  New

Materials:  Cotton; dyes; metal (zipper and snaps)

Origin:  Burkina Faso, Africa

Dimensions:  3.5 x 11 x 16 inches