Colorful Wax Prints Fabrics, Available at the All Things Ankara Store here here
What is ankara? What is ankara fabric? Isn’t it the capital of Turkey? It is the capital of Turkey and it is also the name of a popular fabric worn by many Africans. So what is ankara?
Ankara commonly known as “Ankara prints”, “African prints”,”African wax prints” “Holland wax” and “Dutch wax”, is a 100% cotton fabric with vibrant patterns. It is usually a colorful cloth and is primarily associated with Africa because of its tribal-like patterns and motifs.
It is also a very versatile fabric and many items can be made from it such as hats, earrings, blazers, and shoes to name a few. To make ankara an even more versatile fabric, fashion brands and fabric suppliers have manufactured ankara prints on fabrics like chiffon, silk, spandex for clothing such as kaftans, iro and bubas, bathing suits, sports bars, leggings & socks.
STREETS BABE Sports Bra & Leggings by Ankara Streets
Ankara print fabrics are made through an Indonesian wax-resist dyeing technique called batik. In this technique, methods are used to “resist” the dye from reaching all the cloth, thereby creating a pattern. The lack of divergence in color intensity helps with the determination of the (front) right and (back) wrong side of the fabric.
Ankara print fabrics are usually sold per yard, 6 yards or 12 yards. The fabric company, product and registration number is printed on the selvage of the fabric, to notify people of the quality and to protect the designs from imitators.
The wax fabric can be sorted into categories of quality due to the processes of manufacturing. The colors comply with the local preferences of the costumers. Wax prints can be named after and inspired by personalities, cities, building, sayings, occasions or well-known individuals.
Victoria Rowell’s Obama Gown at The 2009 Emmys – View Post here
Ankara print fabrics can be worn for regular occasions, but many people consider it a formal fabric and it wear it for special occasions.
All Things Ankara’s Best Dressed Women at the Exquisite Ghana Ball 2015 – View the post here
Some people wear it as “asoebi” for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, balls etc. Asoebi is a Nigerian word and means “clothes of the family”. Family members, relatives and close friends usually dress up in similar attire for a special occasion.
Wedding: Dunnie Onasanya & Ibrahim Hasan – View post here
Even though ankara fabrics are associated with the African culture, it’s origins are not authentically and wholly African. Dutch wax prints started out as mass-produced imitations of Indonesian batik fabric.
It was originally intended for the Indonesian market but found a more enthusiastic market in West Africa, where it became symbols of traditional and high quality fashion. From West Africa, this fabric spread to other parts of Africa and all over the world.
All Things Ankara’s Best of 2016: Top 10 Celebrity Red Carpet Moments – View post here
It’s recap time! So what is ankara? What is ankara fabric?
Commonly known as “African prints”,”African wax prints” “Holland wax” and “Dutch wax”,
100% cotton fabric with vibrant patterns
Made through a wax-resist dyeing technique called batik
Very versatile fabric and many items can be made from it such as hats, earrings, blazers, and shoes to name a few
Even though it is associated with the African culture, it’s origins are not authentically and wholly African. Dutch wax prints started out as mass-produced imitations of Indonesian batik fabric.
It is also the capital of Turkey!
Nikki Billie Jean
Nikki Billie Jean is the founder and editor-in-chief of All Things Ankara.
She is also a fashion designer, fashion stylist, fashion director, campaign producer and event producer.
View more of her work at: www.nikkibilliejean.com
116 thoughts on “Wax Print: What is Ankara? … What is Ankara Fabric?”
Hi Ankara Lover,
Sorry for the late response! You can buy ankara fabric at allthingsankara.com/store
If you have any questions please email [email protected]
=)
This was a very good post. I love the vibrant colors that are in ankara fabrics.
As a designer, I love working with ankara fabrics. Stand alone they make some
quite interesting pieces. I enjoying pairing the ankara prints with other types of
fabrics to create even more unique garments. I look forward to doing business
with you in the near future! Blessings
Hi Nikki,
I like how you’ve dedicated this website to Ankara and its relevance in fashion. The colors and patterns are what attracts me to it. I’ve checked out your AllThingsAnkara store and your fabric designs are great. I was curious, where you get your ideas for patterns and colors? Do you know what it’s going to look like before you create it? Thanks for taking the time to read my comment.
Hi there, I wonder if ankara has to be 100% cotton in Nigeria? Do you get them in 100% polyester Ankara fabric, at 4 yards – as opposed to the 100% cotton at 6 yards?
Hi Rich,
No it doesn’t but most are 100% cotton. Unfortunately, we don’t have any in polyester in our store. See our fabric selections at allthingsankara.com/store
Before I read this article, I had no idea what ankara print was. Now that I know I can think of this shirt my sister had growing up that was ankara print. Everyone loved that shirt and always asked her where she got it!
Hi do you sale these clothes and materials at wholesale would like to put yiur clothing and materials in my store. Store In the US. If there is a way for us link up and make this happen. Please contact me. [email protected]
Very informative piece. I would love to use this post/pictures to teach my forth grade students about Ankara. Can you kindly give me permission to do so?
We are one of the highest exporters of fabrics in China. Feel free to contact me for ankara and lace fabris 100% cotton and polyster. all are available. +8618258206579 Jude
Hi! Thanks for reaching out! We are only online and yes we sell in bulk. Shop fabrics at allthingsankara.com/shop and you can also email us at [email protected]
Hi Missy! Thank you! The ankara fabrics feel papery and tear easily because they are not good quality fabrics. They were cheaply made by the manufacturer.
Dear All,
As I can see from your website that you are a big company dealing WAX PRINT FABRICS;
Our company can provide you any type of Cotton Greige Fabric or even Wax printed Fabrics catering to your needs.all kind of other fabrics
We are a big supplier of such fabrics to Chinese & African market and exporting millions of meters since past many years.
Relating to specific needs of Wax Print related qualities, we can offer you following qualities in 100% Cotton (Guaranteed)
24×24/72×60
32×32/68×68
32X32/82X82
27×27/70×72
40×40/96×96
I WILL HIGHLY APPRECIATE YOUR PRECIOUS FEEDBACK/REPLY FOR ANY OF YOUR INTEREST/NEEDS
00923228650788
Hi, I am George from Kenya and I would like to get into the export business for this materials into Kenya. Basically I want to make it sell here, and that calls for your advice since you have the insight on which material can sell well.
Hi! Wonderful article! Since you seem to be the expert, do you know if ankara prints would be safe for babies to sleep on, considering the dyes used? I’m thinking of pillow cases or baby blankets.
Hi Ariel! Thank you for reaching out. Yes, it is safe for babies to sleep on. There are a few brands that specialize in making ankara print products for babies.
The CDC is looking for people to make homemade masks for the Coronavirus. They are desperate for them.
Can you possibly donate any material for these masks. It was on the news tonight. On Facebook, many are starting to make them. There is a pattern and you need a sewing machine naturally.
Thanks for listening
Joanna Roylance. 941-371-0092. Sarasota, Florida 34232.
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Where can I buy Ankara dresses ready made in Holland. Can be from Ghana Nigeria or Congo, I am desparate for some colour
Hi Ankara Lover,
Sorry for the late response! You can buy ankara fabric at allthingsankara.com/store
If you have any questions please email [email protected]
=)
I’m interested in purchasing some of your African fabric. How can I go about it. Please email information about it please.
Thank you.
Hi Geri,
You can purchase Ankara Print Fabric at allthingsankara.com/store . I will also send you an email as well!
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Is the fabric used for Ankara called “cotton cloth”? Is this or is there an official name for the fabric? Thanks.
The name of the fabric is called Ankara. It has different names in certain cultures. The type of material used is cotton.
Dutch wax
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hi i want learn morte baout your fabric, can i have your mobile phone no and email?
or can you send me emai to [email protected] 008613562342218
Very good post about Ankara print fabric. thanks for share your information.
Thank You! You are welcome!
This was a very good post. I love the vibrant colors that are in ankara fabrics.
As a designer, I love working with ankara fabrics. Stand alone they make some
quite interesting pieces. I enjoying pairing the ankara prints with other types of
fabrics to create even more unique garments. I look forward to doing business
with you in the near future! Blessings
Hi Nikki,
I like how you’ve dedicated this website to Ankara and its relevance in fashion. The colors and patterns are what attracts me to it. I’ve checked out your AllThingsAnkara store and your fabric designs are great. I was curious, where you get your ideas for patterns and colors? Do you know what it’s going to look like before you create it? Thanks for taking the time to read my comment.
Hi there,
Does the dye in these fabrics run? If so, how can I prevent this from happening?
Hi Ava,
Sometimes it depends on the quality of the fabric. To prevent this when washing, use cold water or dry cleaning services.
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Who to buy the materials,
You can buy fabric at allthingsankara.com/store
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Where can i buy ankara fabric in South Africa?
Hi Lindelwa, You can buy fabric at allthingsankara.com/store . We ship worldwide.
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Hello, do you have a store in Accra? I would like to purchase ankara chiffon and ankara swimwear fabric. Thanks
Hi Claudia! We don’t we are only online: allthingsankara.com/store
hi dear which country are you at
Hi, If I want a specially made Ankara with picture on it just like the ”Victoria Rowell Obama Dress Emmy 2009”.
How can I get started and how much will it costs.
Hi Banke!
We can start as soon as possible. I will send you an email!
Nikki
Hi, I also want some specially made ankara. I have some ideas about what I’m looking for, can you tell me what the cost will be?
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Hi there, I wonder if ankara has to be 100% cotton in Nigeria? Do you get them in 100% polyester Ankara fabric, at 4 yards – as opposed to the 100% cotton at 6 yards?
Hi Rich,
No it doesn’t but most are 100% cotton. Unfortunately, we don’t have any in polyester in our store. See our fabric selections at allthingsankara.com/store
hello we have wax fabric in cotton and polyester
please contatc me
[email protected]
or 008613562342218
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I would like to have prints, with family faces on Ankara fabric. How do I get started?
Idea like Victoria Rowell w Obama ‘s face.
Hi, Please send me an email [email protected]
Hi Nikki, I would like to buy ankara bags and clutch bags in bulk from you…can u send me the stock prices. I’m in South Africa
Hi, Please send me an email [email protected]
Hi Nikki,
I love the way you have this forum and the various colors in Ankara. I am interested in accra chiffon or tie dye adire; where can I get them from?
Hi Carol! Thank you so much. We have ankara chiffon at allthingsankara.com/store. We will be getting more in stock soon!
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Hi Nikki, I would like to buy ankara materials in bulk from you…can u send me the stock prices. I’m in South Africa
I sent an e-mail and no reply
Hi Nikki
Can you tell me if the wax print shrinks and does the wax finish wash off.
Before I read this article, I had no idea what ankara print was. Now that I know I can think of this shirt my sister had growing up that was ankara print. Everyone loved that shirt and always asked her where she got it!
ello we have wax fabric in cotton and polyester
we can supply patterns
please contatc me
[email protected]
or 008613562342218
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can ankara be incorporated into other wears like jeans or leather?if so do u people do that?? and how?
Do you have any ideas on where the word ‘Ankara’ originates from? Is it from an African, Dutch or Indonesian language?
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Hi do you sale these clothes and materials at wholesale would like to put yiur clothing and materials in my store. Store In the US. If there is a way for us link up and make this happen. Please contact me. [email protected]
Hi please email [email protected] , you can also visit our online store/marketplace at allthingsankara.com/store
hello we have wax fabric in cotton and polyester
please contatc me
[email protected]
or 008613562342218
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I would like to buy ankara materials in bulk from you…can u send me the stock prices. I’m in South Africa
I would like to find out if there is anyone who is buying in bulk from South Africa whom I can venture with.
welcome to contatct me
[email protected]
008613562342218
l also want to buy in bulk may you assist
Hi! Thank you for contacting us. Yes, please send us an email to [email protected]. Our fabrics are listed at allthingsankra.com/shop
Very informative piece. I would love to use this post/pictures to teach my forth grade students about Ankara. Can you kindly give me permission to do so?
Hi Loretta! Yes, you have permission.
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Hi! Can you please tell me, does the wax from Dashiki fabric (those stripes) washes out?
Hi Bambi! The stripes in the dashiki fabric do not wash out.
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Where can I get someone to create me a custom Ankara pattern (artwork). Where the artwork will be released to me for my own personal use.
And if ankara is handmade how is it reprinted to the exact same pattern?
I guess my question is. if I owned a wax pattern how would I be able to use the same pattern on fabric when the original one runs out?
hello we have wax fabric in cotton and polyester
we can supply patterns
please contatc me
[email protected]
or 008613562342218
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how much is to ship 10 times 5.5meters of the material to mossel bay western cape South Africa
We are one of the highest exporters of fabrics in China. Feel free to contact me for ankara and lace fabris 100% cotton and polyster. all are available. +8618258206579 Jude
Thanks For Sharing Such As Great information about Ankara fabric and it’s Printed cotton Design in Fabric.
Thank You
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Good evnin. Pls where is ur office address?cos I want to buy in bulk.
Hi! Thanks for reaching out! We are only online and yes we sell in bulk. Shop fabrics at allthingsankara.com/shop and you can also email us at [email protected]
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Very informative! Question: Why do some Ankara fabrics feel papery and tear easily?
Hi Missy! Thank you! The ankara fabrics feel papery and tear easily because they are not good quality fabrics. They were cheaply made by the manufacturer.
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What an informative article. Thank you! I just ordered some of this amazing fabric to make a dress with.
Dear All,
As I can see from your website that you are a big company dealing WAX PRINT FABRICS;
Our company can provide you any type of Cotton Greige Fabric or even Wax printed Fabrics catering to your needs.all kind of other fabrics
We are a big supplier of such fabrics to Chinese & African market and exporting millions of meters since past many years.
Relating to specific needs of Wax Print related qualities, we can offer you following qualities in 100% Cotton (Guaranteed)
24×24/72×60
32×32/68×68
32X32/82X82
27×27/70×72
40×40/96×96
I WILL HIGHLY APPRECIATE YOUR PRECIOUS FEEDBACK/REPLY FOR ANY OF YOUR INTEREST/NEEDS
00923228650788
Hi, I am George from Kenya and I would like to get into the export business for this materials into Kenya. Basically I want to make it sell here, and that calls for your advice since you have the insight on which material can sell well.
Do you have any ankara fabric whose designs / color are associated with Nigeria? Thanks.
Hi! Yes, we sell fabric per yard and per 6 yards on our retail website. Here is the link: https://allthingsankara.com/shop/product-category/fabrics/
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Hi! Wonderful article! Since you seem to be the expert, do you know if ankara prints would be safe for babies to sleep on, considering the dyes used? I’m thinking of pillow cases or baby blankets.
Hi Ariel! Thank you for reaching out. Yes, it is safe for babies to sleep on. There are a few brands that specialize in making ankara print products for babies.
The CDC is looking for people to make homemade masks for the Coronavirus. They are desperate for them.
Can you possibly donate any material for these masks. It was on the news tonight. On Facebook, many are starting to make them. There is a pattern and you need a sewing machine naturally.
Thanks for listening
Joanna Roylance. 941-371-0092. Sarasota, Florida 34232.
A round of applause for your blog article. Really thank you! Really Cool.
Please can you teach me how to make Ankara on my own,I wish to know how to make it….thank you
How can I know how to make Ankara on my own..am from Nigeria pls am interested
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