Maiwa garments. Each piece is an incredible expression of style and creativity. We are happy to introduce you to some of our new arrivals. All go together, like friends and family.
When craft moves it changes, innovates, and becomes something new.
Mumbai block prints trace their past to the traditional block printing communities of the Kachchh desert in Gujarat. Hand carved wooden blocks, natural dyes, tannins, resists and a printing process that goes back centuries. But the Mumbai block printers have modified the printing blocks to imitate the patterning of distressed paint on cloth. This unique approach is combined with contemporary imagery to create breathtaking patterns.
The deshi wool of the desert regions of Rajasthan makes for durable and long-lasting carpets. The wool is naturally black, cream or white, creating a harmonious palette that works anywhere. To this palette the weavers of Jawaja add accented colour that give their work a contemporary feeling. The Jawaja artisans weave on extra-wide handlooms to create these stunning flatweaves. They feature simple, bold designs and are fine examples of the weaver's art.
For our clothing we are working with a fine, handwoven, cotton. It is a perfect match for the distinctive, colourful patterns of this innovative style of block printing.
Imagine if a master dyer, working in France three-hundred years ago, at the height of his powers wrote down his recipes to document what he knew. Clear, precise instructions with measurements and the results on cloth. Strong natural colours developed long before the invention of synthetic dyes.
Sometimes we think that cloth is the best for ... well almost everything. These bags are no exception. Embellished with running stitch, patterned with embroidery, enclosed by a drawstring, or augmented by leather details. Cloth bags from Maiwa.
Hand painting cloth with natural dyes is an ancient art. In India it is known as kalamkari, which means "pen work". The freedom to place natural colour in a painterly way requires considerable skill and natural dye knowledge.
We always have artisans in mind. Our supplies can be purchased in larger quantities so that you can produce for craft fairs, to stock a booth, to run a workshop, to create for friends or for events - all using the best of materials.