Waxblock, also known as Wax Hollandais or Dutch wax, is the most famous and well-known fabric in the West-African clothing market. In the late 19th century, African fabrics became increasingly popular in West and Central Africa, with waxblock fabrics leading the trend. These classic designs from Vlisco are still worn by both older and younger women, becoming an integral part of cultural heritage. Although Waxblock designs are produced in Holland, they receive their names and meanings in Africa.
Waxblock: a unique printing technique
Waxblock is crafted using a unique printing technique that sets it apart from other cotton fabrics.
The process begins with treating the fabric with industrial-based resin, or wax, making the cotton hard and stiff while revealing the design. The fabric then undergoes base coloring, typically indigo blue, with other colors like brown and light blue. The technique involves breaking the cotton with the wax and base color.
During the first blocking, some wax is removed, and the first color block is printed within the design. Remaining wax is then removed, revealing white dots or spaces characteristic of Waxblock. A second color blocking completes the process, resulting in a finished fabric ready for cutting.
The entire Waxblock creation process involves 25 (!) steps before the fabric is ready for use.
Designed to withstand Africa's varied weather conditions, the colors of Waxblock fabrics remain vibrant even after washing.
Made from 100% cotton, Waxblock comes in various sizes, primarily 6 yards (approximately 5.5 meters in length and 120 cm in width). Other sizes include 12 yards, 4 yards, and occasionally 2 yards.
Waxblock designs
Each Waxblock design has its own cultural significance, with some classic designs over 100 years old still in production. Designs can be specific to a country or shared across multiple countries, each with its own name and meaning.
Modern designs have also gained popularity, especially among younger women. These new designs quickly receive names and meanings, becoming authentic Waxblock in a short time.
Famous Waxblock brands
Jansen Holland House of Premium Fabrics offers two main brands: Julius Holland and Vlisco. Renowned for the distribution of Vlisco designs, Jansen Holland also produces and distributes its own Julius Holland brand. Julius Holland Waxblock fabrics are vibrant, three-dimensional, and respect West and Central African culture.
Every two months, Jansen Holland releases a new Julius Holland Waxblock Collection with various designs, colors, and variations.
With the largest assortment of Vlisco Waxblock fabrics and the widest range of classic designs, Jansen Holland meets the needs of every customer.
