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African Fabric

African fabric is bold, expressive, and deeply rooted in heritage. At Cheap Fabrics, we’re proud to offer one of the UK’s most exciting ranges of African printed fabrics, including vibrant African wax print fabric and authentic African cotton fabric, sourced from across the continent. Whether you're designing show-stopping garments or adding cultural flair to your interiors, our curated collection delivers quality, colour, and craftsmanship.

With over 50 years of family-run expertise, we’re a trusted name in textiles, helping makers across the UK bring their visions to life using the finest African material at competitive prices.

Similar fabrics you may like: African Dress Fabric, Brocade Fabric, Voile Fabric, Taffeta

What is African Print Fabric?

African printed fabric refers to a colourful, 100% cotton textile that features bold motifs and often symbolic patterns. Most commonly known as African wax print fabric, it’s crafted using a wax-resist dye technique that ensures bright, consistent colour on both sides. The origins of this textile are multicultural, blending West African artistry with Indonesian batik techniques and European manufacturing.

Today, these striking fabrics are worn with pride across the world, representing not only fashion but also identity, heritage, and storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to traditional motifs or contemporary takes, each piece of African material carries meaning far beyond its visual beauty.

How Does It Differ From Other Fabrics?

Unlike plain polycottons or synthetics, this ethnic fabric is prized for its saturated colour, high durability, and powerful designs. It’s heavier than some cottons, making it ideal for structured garments, yet still breathable thanks to its all-natural African cotton fabric base. It’s a favourite for tailors, designers, and crafters seeking both boldness and authenticity.

Styles and Varieties We Offer

Our collection of African materials spans a wide variety of regional styles and design inspirations. Whether you’re recreating traditional looks or developing something fresh, our range offers the colours and quality you need:

1. Ankara (Dutch Wax) Print

Features: Symmetrical, bold patterns printed onto soft yet structured cotton. These are the most recognised form of African fabrics, known for their stunning hues and symbolic storytelling.

Best for: Dresses, tunics, accessories, home décor, and statement fashion pieces.

2. Kente-Inspired Prints

Features: Printed replicas of the iconic Ghanaian woven fabric. These mimic the vibrant stripes and block patterns of handwoven Kente while remaining lightweight and cost-effective.

Best for: Cultural garments, formalwear, scarves, and celebratory fashion.

3. Batik and Hand-Dyed Styles

Features: Using traditional wax-resist methods, these fabric options have a more fluid, natural look with less rigid pattern repetition.

Best for: Soft, flowing garments like kaftans, blouses, or loungewear.

4. Shweshwe Cotton Fabric

Features: A stiffer, patterned textile from South Africa, often dyed indigo or earthy tones with small, repeating geometric prints.

Best for: Dresses, quilting, patchwork, and crafts where structure is key.

Perfect for Any Occasion

African material is versatile, vibrant, and ideal for:

  • Weddings: From gele and agbada to bridal party outfits, these African fabrics offer richness, structure, and meaning.
  • Cultural Celebrations: Honour your roots or embrace a new tradition with patterned pieces that speak volumes.
  • Streetwear & Fashion: Modern cuts using African cotton fabric create pieces that are comfortable, breathable, and unapologetically stylish.
  • Home Décor: Use African material to createa dramatic statement décor — think cushion covers, curtains, or even framed fabric art.

Caring for Your African Wax Fabric

To make the most of your textile, proper care is key:

  1. Washing: Hand wash or machine wash cold with gentle detergent. Avoid bleach.
  2. Drying: Air dry flat or hang to preserve colour and structure.
  3. Ironing: Press inside-out on a medium heat, using steam where needed.
  4. Storage: Store flat or loosely folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Browse our stunning range of printed fabric today, a vibrant celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and creativity. With our extensive haberdashery, you’ll find everything from threads to trims to help bring your ideas to life.

The Story Behind These Vibrant Materials

More than just bold designs, these vibrant materials are rich in culture, meaning, and tradition. Every pattern tells a story, whether it's inspired by nature, heritage, or moments in everyday life. Choosing one of these striking textiles means embracing a form of wearable storytelling.

Rooted in time-honoured techniques and passed down through generations, these statement textiles offer more than colour; they reflect identity, artistry, and craftsmanship. From heritage prints to modern reinterpretations, each piece of cotton fabric brings depth and personality to your project.

Whether you're creating garments, accessories, or home décor, these colourful prints allow you to craft something truly individual, something that celebrates style, creativity, and cultural connection in every stitch.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for or have a specific fabric in mind, talk to us, and we can help. 

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