Kuba Cloth

Genuine handwoven Kuba cloth from The Congo

Graphically distinctive and richly evocative of central Africa, Kuba cloth is handwoven using the strands from raffia palm leaves. The raffia strands are dyed in a variety of earth tones using vegetable dyes.

There are two main types of Kuba cloth: cut pile cloths and flatwoven cloths with no pile with either embriodery or appliqué.

Kuba cloths display a variety of interesting features including patchwork, embroidery, appliqué and embellishments.

Historically, the Kuba people have used their cloths as skirts, wrappers, sleeping mats and even currency. For textile enthusiasts, Kuba cloths make wonderful wallhangings and soft furnishing. 

Each cloth is a unique creation. Sizes vary, usually about 50 x 100 cm / 20 x 39 in, approximately.