Caring for Handwoven Cloth

Handwoven cotton has an open structure, which is what gives it movement and breath. It also means the cloth relaxes with wear and tightens slightly when washed. Both are correct behaviour, not faults.

Wash cold, by hand, with a mild soap and no wringing. Dry flat in shade — direct sun will pull the indigo out of a navy weave faster than anything else. Press on the reverse with a cool iron, and never press directly onto metallic thread.

Store folded rather than hung. A heavy boubou left on a hanger for a season will carry the hanger's shape at the shoulder line for a long time afterwards.