Why I love Shwe Shwe

Pronounced as “shwear shwear”as in wear.

Even as a child,I’ve always loved shwe shwe.I was  fascinated by the intricate and detailed prints and how many variations there were using the same technique.

After doing some research on this unique fabric, I love it more and more.

And then coincidentally during my recent trip back home, I was visiting with friend and noticed this article in a magazine on the same topic.

It is known to be a strong fabric which washes well and it’s uses are endless.

For more images go to http://shewearsshweshwe.typepad.com/she_wears_shwe_shwe/ 
and  http://www.shweshweus.com/

 Even though the technique was discovered in Germany This fabric with its distinctive smell and prints  is part of South African history, tradition and culture.It also has a branded stamp to prove it’s authenticity,usually Three leopards , three cats or six star.

What I I love most about Shwe shwe is that it knows no boundaries. It was use used by settlers and slaves and royalty.It is worn as simple work clothes as well as a detailed  wedding gown. Worn on the disheveled streets of informal settlements and shantytowns as well as on international runways.This fabric is used to make clothes for infants through to the elderly.And also as home decor.

There are a few versions of it’s history,but the common thread is that it was imported by German Settlers in the 1800’s and later made popular by local ethnic tribes.It was called “blaudruk” which means “blue print”
 The indigo dyed cotton was sent to Europe for printing.A special block and discharge printing style using copper rollers and a low acid solution.
Shwe Shwe is usually 36 inches wide.It is said it’s because the copper rollers are that width.
Because it needed to shipped,it was heavily starched to protect it from the sea water.It is still starched today but the fabric softens after a few washes.
Later a synthetic indigo colour was developed by a German chemist.
After some years red and brown versions of the fabric was introduced.
They are also printed in panels to make A-line skirts, generally worn ad wrap skirts.

 I was surprised to see the green, orange and pink during my visit to South Africa last year.

A factory in South Africa now owns the sole rights to the print with the Three Cats trademark stamped on the wrong side of the fabric.
There is also a poly-cotton version available, but I prefer the 100% cotton.
There are some factories which make an imitation and generally the imitation has a wider width.