Wotuo (swirl pattern) Canvas Bag

Miao batik or la ran (蜡染), from Guizhou, China, is a wax-resist dyeing technique that has been around since the Qin and Han dynasties. Although this craft has been added to the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list, it remained largely a local tradition and incorporates many traditional motifs to this day - for example, the swirl or "wotuo" pattern in Miao dialect, is used to commemorate their ancestors.

The tote bag on display incorporates this "wotuo" pattern and is carefully hand-painted and hand-dyed. The pattern is drawn onto the fabric with melted beeswax which acts as a dye resistant during the natural indigo dyeing process. Then as you flip it over, a special handwoven fabric is revealed and these shades and patterns vary from bag to bag - really making them "one of a kind"!

If you are interested in learning more about this craft or the team of talented artisans behind it, feel free to check out our videos and blog posts.