Cotton grows naturally in India. Up until the 1750s two indigenous varieties predominated: Gossypium arboreum (known as “tree cotton”) and gossypium herbaceum (known as Lavant cotton). Unlike conventional cotton, these varieties were native to the region and were well adapted to the climate. These fibres show up in textiles from the Kachchh region dating back thousands of years.
More importantly, these local varieties were ecologically sustainable. They had adapted to low water requirements and extremely arid conditions. However, they did not integrate well with industrial machinery and so were neglected. Today these “old world” cottons are being revived and incorporated into handmade textiles where they are once again appreciated as the fibres that can be spun into the threads that make the most exquisite cotton cloth.
Kala cotton. Used in Maiwa towels and select Maiwa clothing.
Shown with: Kala Cotton Khula Top
Shown with: Kala Cotton Khula Top
PART THREE
Shown: Making, Madder, Interpretations, Making Stories, Uniform, Laine, Koel, The Maker's Atelier, PomPom, Swoon, Selvedge, Taproot
To our U.S. customers – don't forget that the exchange rate works in your favour, it's like an extra discount.
