Each piece we create is handcrafted from start to finish with thoughtfully selected materials from around the world.

One of the materials we love using is a silk blend. This silk blend is made by artisans who have learned the traditions and techniques passed down from generations in their families. The art of making this material is truly one-of-a-kind due to the type of fabric and the resist-dye technique.

First, Alara The Label designs the pattern. Once designed, the weaver plans out the fabric’s designs, determining which colors and patterns will appear on the fabric. Then, the fabric’s yarns are colored using resist dyeing. In this stage, individual sections of the yarns are tied and then dipped in large vats of dye. The tied sections remain color-free while the rest of the yarn boasts bright sections of color. This step is repeated using different colors, resulting in yarns that feature multiple bands of all different hues. Once all the yarns are dyed, they’re carefully arranged on a loom in a layout that matches the original design. This part is especially tricky and requires a highly skilled weaver.

Due to the handcrafted nature of this material, slubs may occur, which are part of the beauty of the fabric. About every two yards, the silk blend mirrors itself and there is an un-dyed line that runs through the print. Each dye lot is different which makes each piece truly unique and one-of-a-kind.