If you’ve noticed the beautifully patterned fabrics in your villa, you’ve already started to appreciate one of Indonesia’s most treasured textiles — ikat. Soft, colourful and a little bit rustic, these handwoven fabrics bring warmth, texture and a touch of local culture to every corner of Bawah Reserve.
Ikat is one of Indonesia’s most cherished textile traditions, and we love it!
“Ikat” comes from the Indonesian word “mengikat”, which means to tie, knot or bind. That’s literally how it’s made, using a resist-dyeing technique. Even before the weaving starts, sections of yarn are tightly tied off with thread or string to make them intermittently dye-resistant, after which the bundles are dyed in gorgeous colours . It is during the weaving process that those pre-dyed threads progressively create the vibrant yet softly blurred patterns that make ikat so distinctive.
Every piece is handmade, every pattern unique — a little work of original art in fabric form.
Not quite. Batik [Link to batik blog] is created by applying wax to finished fabric before dyeing it, while ikat is all about colouring the yarn before it is woven. You could think of it this way: ikat is woven art and batik is painted art. Ikat is more about texture and movement; batik is more focused on detail and precision.
Just like the threads of ikat, every detail at Bawah Reserve is woven with care, connection and a story from Indonesia’s islands.”
Paul Robinson, COO, Bawah Reserve
You will find both ikat and batik accents throughout the resort — in cushions, in runners, and even in the special staff uniforms. These details are a part of what connects both you and us to Indonesia’s rich culture. The colours and patterns echo the sea, the sand and the serenity of the islands — soft, natural, and effortlessly beautiful. We have a collection of handmade ikat available for sale at the Six Islands Trading Post.
Next time you curl up with a book or a cocktail, take a moment to notice the fabric that surrounds you. More than just providing décor, each unique piece tells a story that has been intricately woven through every thread.