Ikat is a technique in which the threads are tied and dyed to a set pattern before weaving. Once they are woven, the design has soft, slightly blurred edges, the feature that makes ikat recognisable.
Crafts
Ikat silk scarf
Uzbek ikat means dyeing the threads before weaving, which gives a softly blurred pattern. This silk scarf from Margilan is light and warm, with a shimmering design.
Ikat is an Uzbek technique of dyeing threads before they are woven. The threads are dyed to a complex pattern and then woven into cloth, and the pattern comes out blurred at the edges: that soft boundary between colours is how you recognise ikat at a glance. At our counter you will find silk scarves from Margilan, the centre of Uzbek silk craft.
- Origin
- Uzbekistan (Margilan, Fergana Valley)
- Category
- Uzbek ceramics and textiles
- Packaging
- 70×180 cm
- Shelf life
- Lasts indefinitely with proper care
- Certification
- Not applicable (not a food product)
Margilan has made silk for centuries. The cocoons of the mulberry silkworm are unwound by hand, the threads are bound and dyed to a complex scheme using natural or specially chosen dyes, and the cloth is woven on hand looms. In every scarf the dyeing has to meet the rhythm of the weaving, which is why the pattern is slightly blurred, without hard edges.
At 70×180 cm, the scarf is light and versatile: around your shoulders at the office, over your head in the heat, tied to a bag, or worn to lift a simple dress. Natural silk is warm in winter and cool in summer, one of its advantages over synthetic fibres.
Silk needs careful handling: wash it by hand in cool water with shampoo or a mild silk detergent, do not wring it, and dry it flat. Iron on the reverse at the lowest setting, through a thin cloth. Cared for properly, ikat keeps its colour for years.
FAQ
Ikat silk scarf: common questions
Yes. Margilan silk comes from mulberry silkworm cocoons and is unwound and dyed by hand. We do not stock synthetics or blends; natural ikat costs more, but it also lasts much longer.
Yes, with care: by hand in cool water with shampoo or a mild silk detergent. Do not wring it or put it in a tumble dryer; dry it flat on a towel.
Yes. A Margilan scarf is a classic Uzbek gift for a woman. You can pair it with a ceramic piyola (tea bowl) and have both boxed: we will put the set together for you at the counter.
For plov or tea
Everything for dinner at one counter
At Arkan Bazar in Riga you can get everything for a meal in one go: rice, spices, dried fruit, flatbread and tea. Planning a family celebration or cooking for a large group? Write to us through the form in advance, and we will have your order ready on time.