Handmade Rwandan Batik Long Clutch w/Shoulder Strap - Brown/Cream

Colorful, fun and unique. This longer Batik clutch, with shoulder strap option, is handmade using a waxed fabric technique (Batik), creating a vibrant African cotton print. Lined with a coordinated solid dark brown cotton and inside zipper pocket for keys or change. Great attention to detail - flap secures with a rolled paper and fabric covered bead through an intricate woven circle, using Rwanda's ancient basket weaving tradition.  Great for days or evenings for that pop of color.

• Size:  11" x 5"
  
• Print Patterns: Batik Brown and Cream
  
• Material: Cotton - Hand Waxed Technique to Create Pattern on Cotton Fabric Each unique - no two are exactly alike
• Lined with Inside Pocket
• Handwoven sisal loop closure
• Care: Spot clean with soap and water
• Handmade by the Women of Gahaya Links Under Fair Trade Practice.

WHAT IS BATIK:
BATIK is both an art and a craft. The art of decorating cloth in this way, using wax and dye, has been practiced for centuries. 

To make a batik, selected areas of the cloth are blocked out by brushing or drawing hot wax over them, and the cloth is then dyed. The parts covered in wax resist the dye and remain the original color. This process of waxing and dyeing can be repeated to create more elaborate, vibrant colors and design motifs.

The wax prints are part of a nonverbal way of communication among African women, and hereby they carry their message out into the world. Some wax prints can be named after personalities, cities, building, sayings or occasions. Batik is historically the most expressive and subtle of the resist methods.