Sumba Island, located in the eastern part of Indonesia, is known for its natural beauty and rich culture. One of the prominent cultural heritages of the island is the traditional eco-friendly woven fabric characterized by animal motifs. These fabrics are made by hand using naturally dyed threads. This is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and continues to be preserved by the local community. This shows that Sumba ikat fabric is not only aesthetically pleasing, depicting the beauty and richness of the local culture, but also an example of eco-friendly practices in the textile industry and is now one of the popular design trends in the world of furniture and sofas that are perfect for summer home decoration.
Sumba ikat fabrics are made through a complex process and require specialized skills that are passed down through generations. The process starts with preparing cotton threads which are then dyed using natural materials such as noni root for red, yellow wood for yellow, mud for brown and tarum leaves for blue. If you want to get another color, the weaving craftsmen will dye the yarn with the basic color and then mix it with other colors to get the desired color. These natural dyes not only provide beautiful and unique colors, but are also environmentally friendly and reduce the negative impact on the surrounding nature.
Once the yarn is colored, the weaving process begins. Each strand of yarn is knitted by hand using a traditional loom called a gedongan. This process can take weeks or even years, depending on the complexity of the desired design to produce a quality piece of ikat cloth. The motifs produced often have deep symbolic meanings, reflecting the beliefs, stories and daily lives of the Sumbanese people. Horse motifs are usually used in wedding ceremonies. The mahang animal symbolizes strength, courage and leadership. Chicken, horse and cockatoo are combined to represent unity and achieving a common goal. Thus, this motif not only reflects aesthetic value, but contains deep philosophical and spiritual content.
With its beautiful motifs and rich colors, Sumba ikat fabrics are perfect for home décor, especially for the summer season. Here are some ideas for applying Sumba fabrics in home decor.
1. Sofa and Chair Upholstery
Using Sumba ikat fabrics as sofa or chair upholstery can give your living room an exotic and unique touch. The bright colors and interesting motifs will create a fresh and fun atmosphere.
2. Decorative Pillows and Blankets
Pillowcases with Sumba ikat fabric can be a beautiful decorative accent in the living room or bedroom. The combination of traditional motifs and modern design will result in a harmonious and elegant look. In addition, the use of blankets made of Sumba ikat fabric on the bed can add warmth and color.
3. Tablecloth and Bed Cover
Can give a warm, artistic and cultural feel to your home decor.
4. Wall Decoration
Hang a Sumba ikat fabric as a tapestry on the wall of your living room or family room. It will be an interesting focal point and add visual depth to the room.
5. Room Partition
Use Sumba ikat fabrics as room partitions to create more intimate areas or separate spaces without the need for additional walls.
The beauty of the motifs, rich colors and can be used as home decoration during summer, Sumba ikat fabrics have attracted international attention including Italy which is known as the world’s center of fashion and design. This is evidenced by the fact that in 2019, East Sumba’s woven fabrics were showcased at the Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2019 event by talented designer Adinda Moeda. This can help introduce the beauty and uniqueness of Sumba ikat fabrics to an international audience. In addition, this exhibition also opens wider market opportunities for Sumba ikat fabric products and helps preserve local traditions and skills that are almost extinct.
Sumba ikat fabrics are living proof that traditional practices can go hand in hand with sustainable and eco-friendly principles. Through its natural dyeing and hand-weaving process, this fabric reflects the natural beauty and rich culture of Sumba Island and is perfect for summer home décor. Its use on furniture and sofas not only beautifies the room but also brings a touch of traditional Indonesian culture and art. Not only that, the connection between Sumba ikat fabrics and Italy shows how Sumba fabrics can be integrated in international design and create a collaboration that enriches both cultures. Thus, Sumba fabrics are not only Indonesia’s cultural heritage but also a world asset that should be appreciated and preserved.
