Tenganan double ikat weaving still on the loom

Tenganan double ikat weaving still on the loom

A double ikat weaving is displayed still on its wood and bamboo backstrap loom at the village of Tenganan in eastern Bali.In most of the world where handmade weavings are still produced, patterns are tied into the warp (vertical) or the weft (horizontal) threads, but not both. In an old Balinese village called Tenganan, however, designs are tied and dyed into both warp and weft threads before the two types are interwoven for a final pattern. This technique requires very precise workmanship and the skills required to make these natural dye cloths are closely guarded by Tenganan families. Their textiles, which can take years to produce, are highly valued both within and beyond their home community.