Piecing Together the Puzzle

 

In the heart of Bali, beneath the swaying fronds and the rhythmic melodies of a distant gamelan, thrives a small family-run atelier that breathes life into our silk shirts. This humble studio weaves tales of tradition and artistry, stitching together threads that carry the essence of Balinese craftsmanship.

Ibu Tasha Suraji ​i​s the the proprietor of the Balinese factory with whom we've forged a partnership to craft our artistic garments. The handcrafted journey from printed fabrics to the final garments unfolds under her guidance at a locally owned workshop in Bali, where a team of 20 skilled individuals diligently brings our creations to life.​ Her workshop stands as a testament to the island's commitment to artistic excellence.

 

Pak Nenagh

Ibu Ketut

 


Silk, a fabric synonymous with luxury, is notoriously delicate. The creation of a single printed silk shirt unfolds like a carefully choreographed performance. Each shirt is a symphony of over 50 carefully orchestrated steps. From the initial cut to the final stitch, every action is deliberate, ​a​nd considered. 

In an age where machines dominate production lines, ​t​hese artisans embrace ​a human touch. Each fabric panel is cut by skilled hands, a meticulous process where precision is paramount. Carefully checking each panel, the ​c​utters ensure that every seam aligns with the original artwork, preserving the integrity of the design.

 
 

The cut panels, now a kaleidoscope of printed silk, pass from hand to hand, landing in the skilled palms of the sewers. With great patience the sewers piece together the jigsaw puzzle of fabric, slowly revealing the form of a finished shirt.  The art of sewing printed silk shirts is not just a craft; it's a labor of love. It's an ode to patience, precision, and the timeless allure of silk​.

 

Words BY BOB SKULL Photography by STEVIE ANDERSON

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NATURAL DYES