Textile Stories: Filipino Binakol
At Travel Patterns our heart and mission is to weave traditional textiles and patterns into our everyday lives. We do this by working directly with partners in several different countries to create products that not only look amazing but are also ethically sourced. We strive to not only make these textiles accessible, but to also educate on how they are made.
Today we are featuring the Filipino Binakol fabric that can be found in our Luzon Collection.
Binakol, also known as binakel, binakael, or binakul, is a variation of the popular abel weave. It is a “twill” or double tone basket-weave pattern that is created using pedal looms or “pangblan”. This traditional Filipino textile pattern is indigenous to Ilokanos and Itnegs communities of the Ilocos Region on Northwest Luzon, the northernmost island in the Philippines where Manila is located. This region is well known for the handweaving traditions which is why we decided to explore partnerships here.
Traditionally, Binakol’s design is composed of two colors forming an interlocked geometric pattern, resulting in an optical illusion despite its flat surface. This effect of spinning circles resembles that of whirlwinds, whirlpools, and fans which is believed to drive away bad spirits and protect the wearer. While Binakol is a ceremonial cloth used to cover corpses for protection, this sacred fabric is also known to be used on boats to calm the winds, waves, and seek protection from the spirits.
We are excited to have this amazing traditional textile incorporated into our Travel Pattern line!
Shop our products that feature this textile:
Take Heart, Take Flight!
-Travel Patterns Team