How Ikat is Made - Natural Dye - Uzbekistan

Making Ikat is a complicated process that involves 37 steps and the work of many artisans. In Uzbekistan, Ikat has been produced for centuries, passed on through generations. Natural dyes are used to colour the silk, and it is woven into a beautiful silk cloth or velvet after the designs have been carefully applied. At the Ethical Fashion Initiative, we want to help protect this craft for generations to come.

THE ETHICAL FASHION INITIATIVE (EFI) is a flagship programme of the International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint agency of the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. For the Ethical Fashion Initiative, lifestyle choices impact livelihoods. EFI creates and strengthens social enterprises in emerging economies to connect discerning international brands in fashion, interiors and fine foods with talented local designers, artisans and micro-producers. Savvy investors, pro-poor champions and mindful consumers find value in a virtuous circle that creates not just premium products, but also stable, dignified work, and creative and resilient women, men and communities.