There is something addictive about fabric. Is it the look? The feel? The patterns or colors that seem to pull you in before you even realize it?
Whatever the draw, beautiful fabrics are a big part of my life here at Elegant Home & Family — and the newest treats to grab my attention have been the gorgeous African design wax prints.
What Makes African Wax Prints So Special?
These fabrics are alive with stunning colors, wild and intricate designs, and fine cotton or silky polyester on which to display those prints. No two pieces feel quite the same, and that's exactly what makes them so irresistible to a maker like me.
How Are They Made?
Wax prints are produced in the same way as the more familiar batik. The design is traced out on the fabric, then filled with wax, after which the fabric piece is dyed. The final step is to boil the fabric to remove the wax, leaving a beautiful design behind. True wax prints (or batik) will have the same design on both sides — a hallmark of quality.
A Rich History
African wax print fabrics, also known as Ankara, came to West Africa in the late 1800s through Dutch traders who found an enthusiastic culture for these bold designs. Today they remain a vibrant symbol of African identity and creativity.
To learn more, read "The History and Hidden Meanings of African Wax Print Cloth" at Ashanti Empress.
From Fabric to Finished Piece
At Elegant Home & Family, these extraordinary fabrics inspire everything from handcrafted pillows and totes to one-of-a-kind apparel. Each piece celebrates the beauty of the fabric itself — made with care in our New England studio.
Browse our latest handcrafted pieces in our Handmade for Her collection — and if you spot an Ankara print you love, you'll know the story behind it. 🌍✨
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