Driftwood Scarf
SOLD
Content: Linen
Measurements: approx 208cm x 34cm + 6cm fringe (82” x 13” + 2″ fringe)
I have woven this scarf using a beautifully fine 40/2 pure linen thread, spun and naturally dyed in Bengal, India. Both colours are dyed with Kasheem, while the lighter fawn shade also incorporates Gallnuts in the dyeing process. (see below for more information.)
The design begins with delicate black pinstripes at each end, followed by bolder, thicker stripes through the centre — a simple but striking detail.
Because of the fineness of the thread, this scarf is sheer, light, and wonderfully breathable. With every wear, linen softens and becomes even more comfortable. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer not to wear wool or live in a milder climate. And as a natural, biodegradable fibre, it’s gentle on both skin and earth.
To care for the natural dyes, be sure to use a pH-neutral liquid detergent when washing.
Kasheem is iron water using a traditional recipe of fermenting scrap iron, date palm sugar and chickpea flour. It reacts with tannins to create greys & blacks.
Gallnut (Oak Gall) is used to mordant cellulose fibers and fabrics before an alum mordant. Gallnuts from oak trees are a rich source of natural clear tannin. A gallnut is produced by oak trees as a defense against parasitic wasps who deposit their eggs in small punctures they make on young branches. The tree excretes a tannin-rich substance that hardens and forms a gallnut. These are collected and ground to be used in dyeing.