The Rainbow Serpent and Bridge to the Ancestors
This wrapper honors Osumare, the Yoruba deity who embodies the rainbow and the umbilical cord, symbolizing the sacred link between the earthly realm and the ancestral world. Often depicted as a rainbow encircling the earth or a rainbow boa biting its tail, Osumare represents an eternal connection that binds humanity to ancestors and the divine. Like the womb, this symbol serves as a bridge for souls crossing between worlds, connecting the energy of creation with the power of feminine continuity. The serpent, an enduring emblem of feminine strength, here reclaims its role as a guide between realms, honoring the womb’s role as a sacred portal for ancestral rebirth.
Versatile Design and Intentional Material
The wrapper is designed with versatility in mind—it can be worn as a wrap skirt, styled as a dress, or used as a baby carrier, nodding to traditions of ancestral babywearing. Made from 100% organic cotton sateen, the fabric is soft and gentle against the skin while offering strength for various uses, making it a practical yet deeply symbolic garment.
A Rainbow of Natural Dyes
This piece celebrates a full spectrum of natural color, with a vibrant pink background derived from cochineal. Across the foreground, a radiant rainbow of colors appears, hand-dyed with cochineal, madder, weld, and logwood to create shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and purple. Each hue reflects the earth’s beauty and the spirit of the rainbow, uniting tradition with the natural world.
“Rain-Boa” Wrapper
Details:
- 100% organic cotton sateen
- Weight: .374 kg / 13.2oz
- Dimensions: 3m x 1.5m
- Hand-painted using natural dyes
- Due to the nature of handmade pieces, please allow for variation.
Wrap Skirt (100% Organic Cotton Sateen)
Organic Cotton Colours Recommendations + Natural Dye Tips
- Washing: Hand wash or machine wash separately in cold water (maximum 30°C) with a pH-neutral, natural detergent. Avoid bleach, as it may damage both the fibers and the natural dyes.
- Detergent: Use a mild, pH-neutral liquid detergent, such as Ecos, Eucalan, or Tru Earth. Avoid general detergentsand stain removers, as they can alter the dye color and fabric texture.
- Drying: Line dry in the shade to prevent fading from direct sunlight. Avoid tumble drying.
- Ironing: If needed, use a warm iron on the reverse side or place a cloth over the garment. Ironing directly can flatten the natural texture.
Tips for Stains
- Avoid contact with acidic substances like citrus or vinegar, which can react with the dye.
- For stains, create a lukewarm water bath with a small amount of pH-neutral soap. Let the garment soak for 3–5 minutes, then rinse as usual.
- Hot water sieve technique: For stubborn stains, stretch fabric over a sink with another person’s help, and pour hot water through the stain. Be cautious not to scald yourself!
General Tips for All Naturally Dyed Garments
- Sunlight Protection: Long exposure to direct sunlight may fade natural dyes. Line dry in the shade and store in a dark place.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of bleach, stain removers, and acidic cleaners.
- Stain Removal: Handle any stains gently. Spot cleaning may lift color in an uneven way, so the best approach is a quick rinse in lukewarm, soapy water.