Silk ikat fabric is a medium weight, shiny fabric ideal for high-end sportswear, some eveningwear, and home decor. The term "ikat" refers to the variegated yarns that run in the weft direction of the fabric. A technique that originated in Western Asia, the yarns are space-dyed in 2 colors to create a beautiful natural pattern. Our silk ikat is similar in texture and handfeel to our dupioni fabric, in that the ikat yarns are also non-uniform in thickness resulting in a slubby texture in the fabric. Silk ikat is very forgiving and easy to sew.
100% Silk
45 Inches Wide
Yarn Dyed
First Quality Fabric
Slubby, textured surfaces. Similar weight and feel to dupioni silk fabric – it is crisp and holds its shape when draped.
Velvety sheen due to the way the silk filaments reflect light
- This fabric is very forgiving and easy to sew, but tends to ravel at raw edges
- Use with nap cutting layout (i.e. all pattern pieces laid out in the same lengthwise direction) so all pattern pieces reflect light the same way and shading is prevented.
- Use standard stitch size and a sharp, universal (or quilting) needle when machine sewing
- Wrinkle resistant, but since it is a natural fiber this means it also does not hold a crease well
- Great for tailored and structured garments
- Texture can feel rough on the skin, so it’s best to line garments made in this fabric.
- Even when fully lining the garment, overlock (serge) seam allowances to prevent fraying
- The fabric is somewhat stiff in its original state – you can wash on gentle cycle with cold water and hang straight to dry for softer drape. We recommend you test a small piece of yardage first, though.
- This fabric is very versatile. Depending on the garment, some of the finishes you can use are: French seams, overlock (serger), binding, rolled hem, hand-stitched or top-stitched hem.
Dry clean recommended; press on “silk” setting with steam and keep out of direct sunlight to maintain color.
