---
type: "fabric"
name: "Ikat"
slug: "ikat"
fabric_family: "specialty"
construction: "jacquard"
typical_fibers:
  - "Cotton"
  - "Silk"
weight_gsm: "150–300 g/m²"
price_tier: 4
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/ikat"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:14:28.052033+00:00"
---

# Ikat

Ikat is a distinctive fabric characterized by its unique dyeing technique, where the yarns are dyed before weaving, resulting in intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

- **Fabric Family**: Specialty
- **Construction**: Jacquard
- **Typical Fibers**: Cotton, Silk
- **Weight**: 150–300 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.3–0.6 mm
- **Typical Width**: 110 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$$ (4 of 5)

## About Ikat

Ikat is a specialty fabric that utilizes a unique dyeing process where the yarns are dyed in patterns before being woven into the final textile. This technique can create complex designs that are often blurred or softened at the edges, giving Ikat its signature look. Typically made from cotton or silk, Ikat is known for its lightweight and breathable properties, making it suitable for a variety of applications including apparel, home decor, and accessories. The jacquard construction allows for intricate designs and textures, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

## Woven Properties

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

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 0%
- **Weft Stretch**: 0%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 10 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 50 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 5
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 0.5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.1
- **UPF Rating**: 15

## Appearance & Hand

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

## Performance Features

- Moisture Wicking
- Wrinkle Resistance

## Common Finishes

- Mercerized
- Sanforized

## Common Applications

- Dresses
- Shirts
- Home Textiles
- Accessories

## Common Uses in Detail

### Dresses & Shirts

Ikat's vibrant, pre-dyed patterns make it a natural choice for statement dresses and shirts. The rich colors and intricate designs add visual depth to garments, while the [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton) or silk base ensures comfort and a graceful drape suited to everyday and occasion wear.

### Home Textiles

Decorative cushions, curtains, and table runners benefit greatly from Ikat's bold, artisanal patterns. The fabric's jacquard construction lends it durability and texture, allowing it to serve as a striking focal point in interior spaces while standing up to regular household use.

### Accessories

Scarves, bags, and headbands crafted from Ikat showcase its intricate motifs on a wearable scale. The fabric's colorful, handcrafted aesthetic adds a bohemian, artisan quality to accessories, making each piece feel unique and elevating even simple outfits with expressive, culturally rich detail.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash cold on gentle cycle. Line dry or tumble dry low. Iron on low heat.

- Washing Symbol
- Ironing Symbol
- Do Not Bleach

## Additional Information

Ikat fabrics are often hand-dyed, making each piece unique. The intricate patterns can vary significantly, adding to the fabric's charm and appeal.

- **Regional Names**: Batik Ikat (Indonesia), Kalamkari (India)
- **Sourcing Regions**: Southeast Asia, India, Central Asia
- **Testing Standards**: Martindale/Rub count, Colorfastness to wash, Pilling, Seam slippage

## Fibers in This Fabric

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

## Similar Fabrics

- [Sheer Drapery](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/sheer-drapery.md) — Upholstery Decor
- [Activewear Interlock](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/activewear-interlock.md) — Specialty
- [Activewear Jersey](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/activewear-jersey.md) — Specialty
- [Activewear Tricot](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/activewear-tricot.md) — Specialty
- [Adire](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/adire.md) — Specialty

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