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Mali weavers and dyers are the creators of the fine textiles of Mali. The people of Mali are very conscious about their clothes and the way they look. They dress themselves in vibrant colored clothes and turbans most of which are created by the weavers and dyers of Mali. Weaving is considered as one of the most important crafts in the country. The Mali weavers and dyers have huge contribution in the economic development of the country, as the fabrics created by them are the most popular export commodities of the country.
Woven and Dyed Fabrics of Mali
The most popular fabric made in Mali is the mud-cloth or the bogolanfini, made by the Bamanas. This cotton fabric is woven with dots, lines and beautiful motifs. The fabrics of the Dogon, Bamana and Senufo are the most popular fabrics in the country. After being woven the fabrics are then dyed or painted.
Mali Weaving and Dying Process
There is a definite technique, which has been followed from the beginning. The weaving and dying processes are shared by both men and women. The strips of fabrics are woven mainly by the men and the women spin the cotton and make threads.
The fabrics are dyed with the colors made from natural extracts. For example, the yellow color is made from the sap of a root. Tie-dye fabrics are popular among tourists as well as the locals.
Nowadays, Mali weavers and dyers take help of various kinds of machines to weave, dye and even for embroidery.
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