unique scarf

The intricate texture in this handsome kente cloth shawl is inspired by beach pebbles. Designed by a fisherman around 1898, its name means "pebbles of the shore are hard to crack." The tiny blocks of pattern represent the thoughts of that ancestral craftsman. Handcrafted by the Gobah Tengey-Seddoh Family, this extraordinary double weave textile is one of the most difficult patterns to achieve. These expert weavers use traditional looms and a cotton blend.

Each strip requires considerable effort, and the looms are worked with both hands and feet. Strips are generally three to four inches wide and seven to ten feet long, and the length of time it takes to complete one strip varies by the complexity of the chosen pattern. The simplest use mostly vertical, or warp patterns, and an experienced weaver can make several of those in one day. But patterns with nearly all weft (horizontal thread) patterns, where the warp design is hardly visible, can take up to four days to complete an individual strip. Each color has its own meanings in Asante culture. Green is fertility and new harvest, gold is royalty, black is strength, aging, and spirituality, while white is purity. The patterns themselves are carefully chosen symbols, which a master weaver develops and names, often to honor people, historical events, or proverbs.

Made on a traditional loom, Gobah Tengey-Seddoh's newest design combines modern trends with Ghana's unique style. This scarf is entirely made from cotton, allowing for a comfortable texture in a gorgeous sapphire hue. As a touch of uniqueness, the accessory is also adorned with geometric details, creating a sophisticated aura that complements several outfits.

The flames of the Andean region ensure a warm winter through a 100% baby alpaca scarf, made with traditional techniques. Artisan Alfredo Falcon draws inspiration from the region's unique patterns to weave this soft piece, whose motifs merge red, brown and purple hues.

The Indian region shows its marvelous style with an exquisite creation by Ashfaq Ahmed. Inheritor of unique looming techniques, the artisan handcrafts this distinguished rug from wool yarns, merging alabaster, scarlet and russet shades in a geometric diamond pattern that evokes the nation's luxurious tradition. As the final touch, graceful fringes complete the piece.