Hand-embroidered bazin represents the purest expression of West African textile savoir-faire. Each piece in our collection is adorned with patterns created with a needle by master embroiderers from Mali and Senegal, heirs to a tradition passed down for generations in Bamako, Saint-Louis, and Dakar.
Traditional bazin embroidery has nothing to do with machine embroidery. It requires hours of meticulous work, sometimes several weeks for a large ceremonial boubou. Each stitch is pulled by hand, each design drawn then followed with thread, creating a relief and vibration that only hand embroidery can offer.
Rich Bazin, a Noble Medium for Embroidery
Our hand-embroidered bazin is exclusively made on genuine rich bazin: a hand-dyed damask cotton, pounded with a mallet to give it its characteristic luster. This dense and brilliant material is the ideal medium for embroidery: it holds the thread without deforming and highlights every arabesque. The colors range from immaculate white to deep indigo blue, including burgundy, empire green, ochre, and gold.
Patterns and Symbols of Bazin Embroidery
Each embroidery tells a story. Floral patterns evoke fertility and prosperity; geometric arabesques recall Mandingo and Soninke influences; patterns centered on the collar and front of the boubou mark status and elegance. Our artisans work on both traditional embroideries and more contemporary compositions. All our hand-embroidered bazins benefit from free delivery in France and Europe, payment in 3 or 4 interest-free installments, and free returns within 14 days.
How long does it take to hand-embroider a bazin?
Depending on the complexity of the pattern and the size of the piece, a hand-embroidered bazin requires between 40 hours and several weeks of work. Large ceremonial boubous can keep an artisan busy for 3 to 4 weeks.
Is hand embroidery more durable than machine embroidery?
Yes, traditional bazin embroidery is executed with tight, knotted stitches that withstand the test of time. Well-maintained, it retains its luster for decades.
Can I order a custom-made embroidered bazin?
Absolutely. We offer custom-made services with a choice of pattern, colors, and cut. Delivery time 3 to 5 weeks, contact us to start your project.
