What Is Wax Print (Ankara)? An Introduction to Africa's Most Famous Fabric

What Exactly Is Wax Print? 

Hello! Let me introduce you to Wax Print, also known as Ankara in West Africa. Whether you've heard of it before or it's new to you, it's a fabric that deserves your attention. It's not just a piece of colorful cloth; it's a symbol, an expression of culture, identity, and fashion that I personally find fascinating.

What Exactly Is Wax Print?

When we think of African fashion, most of us picture these fabrics with their striking patterns and vibrant colors. That's exactly what Wax Print is—a fabric that has made its way from Africa to international fashion runways and into the daily lives of millions. My own journey with Wax Print fabrics began years ago when I first encountered their unique beauty. I quickly realized that every pattern holds a story, and that's precisely what inspired me to share these stories with you.

Where Does Wax Print Come From?

It might surprise you that the origin of Wax Print fabric isn't directly from Africa. Its history is incredibly interesting, dating back to the 19th century when Dutch merchants were inspired by Indonesian batik and brought the technique to West Africa. However, African communities quickly adopted it and transformed it to suit their own aesthetics. That's why today we see fabrics with bold colors and rich symbolic patterns inspired by nature, family, faith, or even politics.

Ankara: Why Is the Fabric Called That?

In Nigeria, Ghana, and other West African countries, one name became established for Wax Print in the 20th century – Ankara. This term was reportedly simpler than "Wax Print" and over time became part of everyday speech. The fabric became such a natural and omnipresent element of daily life that for local people, Ankara is simply synonymous with colorful printed cotton fabric used to make dresses, shirts, skirts, and many other garments. 

How Is Ankara Sold?

One of the most interesting things is that Wax Print fabrics aren't sold by the meter as they are here. Instead, you'll find them in pre-cut bundles, known as yard bundles:

• 6 yards (approx. 5.5 meters): The most common bundle, usually enough for a dress or a men's outfit.

• 12 yards (approx. 11 meters): A double bundle, ideal for matching couple or family outfits.

Each package is additionally marked with the manufacturer's logo and often also carries a hologram or label that guarantees the fabric is genuine. For us as sellers, this is the most important factor – but even so, it is always necessary to inspect the fabric. The label also indicates the quality grade, ranging from the lowest – made from blended fibers – up to the highest, marked as "exclusive," which is 100% woven cotton. This top quality has an identical print on both sides (not faded). Lower quality fabric can be recognized quite easily: the print on the inner side is much lighter, the fabric appears shinier, and it feels more "papery" to the touch. Africans often refer to these two types simply as the original and the counterfeit

While fabrics in Africa are sold in whole bundles, here on my e-shop, you can choose exactly as much as you need. I offer Wax Print fabrics starting from one meter, so you don't have to feel limited.

A Fabric That Tells Stories

What fascinates me most about Wax Print is its cultural depth. It's not just a fashion material; it's a language without words. Every pattern has a name and a meaning that people in the community immediately recognize. Some patterns symbolize love and fertility, while others can be satirical, telling stories about society or politics. For example, in Nigeria and Ghana, people often wear what's called aso ebi, or "family cloth." This involves an entire family or community wearing the same pattern for important events like weddings, funerals, or celebrations.

More Than Just a Tradition

Although Wax Print is deeply rooted in tradition, it has adapted to the modern era. Today, you can find it in the collections of world-famous designers, in interior design, and in everyday urban fashion. It's a versatile fabric suitable for everything from dresses and skirts to handbags, shoes, and pillows. Its durability, beauty, and symbolism make it a fabric with timeless appeal. That's why I love offering it and showing how beautifully it can liven up any wardrobe.

I hope you enjoyed this introduction to the world of Wax Print fabric. Do you now understand why this fabric has captivated me so much? :)