---
type: "fabric"
name: "Dutch Wax Print"
slug: "dutch-wax-print"
fabric_family: "specialty"
construction: "jacquard"
typical_fibers:
  - "Cotton"
weight_gsm: "150–250 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/dutch-wax-print"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:08:57.205615+00:00"
---

# Dutch Wax Print

Dutch Wax Print is a vibrant, intricately patterned cotton fabric known for its rich colors and cultural significance, often used in traditional garments and contemporary fashion.

- **Fabric Family**: Specialty
- **Construction**: Jacquard
- **Typical Fibers**: Cotton
- **Weight**: 150–250 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.3–0.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 114 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Dutch Wax Print

Dutch Wax Print fabric is a specialty cotton fabric characterized by its bold, colorful prints created through a wax-resist dyeing technique. The jacquard construction allows for complex patterns and designs, making it a popular choice for both traditional African attire and modern fashion. The fabric is typically made from 100% cotton, providing breathability and comfort, while its unique printing process gives it a distinctive texture and appearance.

## Woven Properties

- **Ends per Inch (EPI)**: 60
- **Picks per Inch (PPI)**: 50

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 2%
- **Weft Stretch**: 2%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 5 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 50 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 0.5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.1
- **UPF Rating**: 15

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Bright
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: smooth
- **Hand & Drape**: Fluid

## Performance Features

- Moisture Wicking
- Wrinkle Resistance

## Common Finishes

- Mercerized
- Brushed

## Common Applications

- Dresses
- Skirts
- Shirts
- Home Decor
- Accessories

## Common Uses in Detail

### Dresses & Skirts

Bold, eye-catching patterns make this fabric a natural choice for wrap dresses and flowing skirts. Its sturdy [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) weave holds structure while remaining breathable, and the vivid, culturally resonant prints elevate everyday garments into statement pieces rooted in tradition.

### Home Décor Accents

Rich colors and intricate geometric motifs translate beautifully onto cushion covers, table runners, and wall hangings. The durable [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) construction withstands regular use, while the distinctive wax-resist patterns bring warmth, personality, and global artistry to interior spaces.

### Fashion Accessories

Head wraps, tote bags, and scarves crafted from this fabric showcase its versatility beyond full garments. Smaller cuts allow the striking prints to take center stage, and the [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) base is easy to work with, making accessories both expressive and practical.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash in cold water with similar colors. Do not bleach. Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry. Iron on medium heat.

- Machine Wash Warm
- Do Not Bleach
- Tumble Dry Low

## Additional Information

Dutch Wax Print fabrics are often associated with cultural identity and storytelling, making them popular in both traditional and contemporary fashion markets.

- **Regional Names**: Ankara (West Africa), Kitenge (East Africa)
- **Sourcing Regions**: Netherlands, West Africa, China
- **Testing Standards**: AATCC 61 Colorfastness to Laundering, ASTM D5034 Tear Strength, AATCC 8 Colorfastness to Crocking

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton.md)

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- [Activewear Interlock](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/activewear-interlock.md) — Specialty
- [Activewear Jersey](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/activewear-jersey.md) — Specialty
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- [Adire](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/adire.md) — Specialty

---
*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/dutch-wax-print) — HTML version of this page.*