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What is African Mud Cloth?
This fabric is a traditional African fabric that has its origins in Mali, a West African country. It is typically characterized by white geometric designs on a dark black background (although mustard, red, green and purple backgrounds can also be found). Although African Mud cloth is relatively new to the US, having only been here since the 1990s, it dates as far back as the 12th century AD.
As per its name, this cloth actually does contain traces of mud due to the process used to make it, which involves among other things using fermented mud as well as a liquid that is concocted from the leaves of native trees. Mud cloth is often soaked in this liquid several times before the cloth is actually finished. The term Mud cloth is actually a direct translation of an African word, bogolanfini.
This traditional textile was usually made in the old-fashioned manner of weaving cotton into strips on looms and then binding these strips together. The cloth is then washed, allowed to shrink, dried in the sun, and then adorned with designs. Interestingly enough designs are applied to Mud cloth almost as if it was a negative of a photograph. The white designs are where the dyes have not been applied.
To find a genuine piece one does not have to look far. All one needs to do is find a retail establishment, like Africa Imports, that sells Mud cloth imported from Africa. Modern versions of this cloth are also available on the open market; however, you may see a big difference in the quality and textures.
Because of its handmade origins, it is fairly easy to distinguish authentic Mali Mud cloth from its modern counterparts. Firstly, the authentic Mud cloth will have an uneven look to the weave, because it is made by hand. Additionally, some of the dye will rub off before it has been washed. The textures of this cloth varies from a medium to smooth texture, and will not be sold off of a bolt, which is how we commonly buy our modern fabrics in the US. It can often be found folded and sold in sections.
Black Mud cloth is the most common and is typically used when relaying proverbs or telling stories. Symbols will actually be built into the designs.
White Mud cloth is the rarest and is often used in special ceremonies.
Red Mud cloth is often associated with the Fulani tribes people and with the activity of hunting, although the meanings may vary from region to region and people to people, since Africa is so enormous encompassing hundreds of tribes.
African Mud cloth is a wonderful fabric with an amazing and interesting history. It can be purchased and used not only for clothing, but for home decoration including drapery, covers, wall hangings, upholstery, pillow covers, crafts and many other uses.
One need not look very far to find a wonderful example of this textile to admire. Because of its popularity, it can be found in many homes and is a wonderful natural fabric that harkens back to a simpler time, one rich with traditions.
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