Shweshwe Fabric FAQ

Is Shweshwe a waxed fabric?

No! It's not to be confused with the equally wonderful, but very different, wax-printed textiles from West Africa. Shweshwe does not have any wax added.

Why does Shweshwe require a rinse before use?

Shweshwe is a heritage fabric, still finished with a traditional starch coating to protect the cotton fibres. This gives the fabric its signature stiffness and smell when new. Rinsing is essential before cutting or sewing to soften the fabric, fix the colour, and prevent shrinkage.

​How do I rinse Shweshwe?

By machine:

• Use shortest coolest cycle

• No detergent necessary

• Use colour catcher if rinsing light & dark fabrics together

• Hang out to dry

• No tumle drying or dry cleaning

• Use warm iron

By hand:​

• Soak overnight in warm water

• Rinse until water runs clear

​Dimensions after washing?

• Width: 89cm (35 inches)

• FAB quarters: approx. 41 x 48.5cm (16 x 19 inches) after washing

How to Check That Your Shweshwe Is Genuine

Authentic Shweshwe is produced by Da Gama Textiles in South Africa — the only licensed manufacturer of traditional Shweshwe today. Here are the key things to look for:

• Stiff, starched feel – Genuine Shweshwe is coated with starch, making it crisp when new. This softens after pre-rinsing.

• Distinctive smell – The traditional finishing process gives new fabric a characteristic smell, often compared to ink or starch.

• Printed backstamp – True Shweshwe carries the Da Gama “Three Cats,” backstamp on the reverse side of the fabric, as shown on this page.

• Design clarity – Patterns are printed with high detail and sharp definition, not blurred or fuzzy.

• Rich, enduring colour – Genuine Shweshwe holds its dye through many washes, unlike imitation fabrics which fade quickly.

Tip: If the fabric is very soft when new, lacks a backstamp, or the print quality looks uneven, it’s likely an imitation.

FAB vs FAT Quarter?

I use the term ‘FAB Quarter’ to reflect the slightly narrower width of authentic Shweshwe compared to a standard FAT quarter — it’s part of what makes this fabric so unique and special!

Shipping Information:

• UK Orders

Free UK shipping by Royal Mail 2nd Class. Delivery usually takes 2–3 working days after dispatch.

• Upgrades

1st Class Tracked delivery is available for an extra charge — simply select this option at checkout.

• International Orders

Shipping outside the UK is available on request. Costs depend on destination and service chosen.

• Dispatch Times

Orders are usually dispatched within 1–2 working days. You’ll receive confirmation once your parcel is on its way.