Moroccan wedding blankets, also known as handiras, have a long history and are an important part of Berber culture in Morocco. These blankets have been used for centuries in traditional Berber weddings as a ceremonial cape or shawl for the bride.
Over time, these blankets became recognized for their unique beauty and cultural significance and gained popularity as a decorative item in home decor.
At Ornate, our traditional rural artisans make inspired Moroccan wedding blankets using age old traditional techniques of weaving and artistry.
History of Moroccan Wedding Blankets
Moroccan wedding blankets have a long history in Berber culture and are an important part of traditional weddings. These blankets were traditionally given as a wedding gift to the bride and were used during the wedding ceremony as a cape or shawl. They were said to bring good luck and blessings to the newlyweds and were cherished as a symbol of the couple's love and commitment to each other.
The origin of the Moroccan wedding blanket is not entirely clear, but it is believed that they were first created by Berber women in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco. The blankets were made using natural fibers such as wool, cotton, and linen and were woven by hand using traditional techniques.
Symbolism of Moroccan Wedding Blankets
Moroccan wedding blankets are not only beautiful, but they also have deep cultural and symbolic meaning. The blankets are often embellished with sequins, beads, or fringes, which represent the beauty and richness of culture. The distinctive motifs, which are often geometric shapes and patterns, are said to represent the natural world and the interconnectedness of all things.
In addition to their use in weddings, these wedding blankets have also been used as everyday blankets by the Berber people to keep warm in the cold winter months. They are a symbol of comfort, protection, and warmth, and are often passed down through generations as a family heirloom.
Craftsmanship of Moroccan Wedding Blankets
The craftsmanship involved in making a Moroccan wedding blanket is truly remarkable. Each blanket is made by hand using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations of artisans.
The process starts with spinning wool into yarn using a spindle or spinning wheel. The yarn is then woven into a base cloth using a traditional loom. Once the base cloth is complete, the decorative elements of the blanket are added, including the distinctive motifs and embellishments.
The addition of sequins, beads, or fringes is done by hand using a needle and thread, which requires great skill and precision. Finally, the finished blanket is washed to soften the fibers and give it a cozy texture.
The craftsmanship involved in making a Moroccan wedding blanket is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and traditions of artisans. Each blanket is a unique work of art that represents the skill, creativity, and dedication of the artisan who created it.
How are these woven?
The first step in making a Moroccan wedding blanket is to spin wool into yarn using a spindle or spinning wheel. The wool is often sourced from local sheep or goats and can be a blend of different colors.
Next, the yarn is woven into a base cloth using a traditional loom. The base cloth is typically made of cotton or linen and serves as the foundation for the blanket.
Once the base cloth is complete, the decorative elements of the blanket are added. This includes the distinctive Berber motifs, which are often geometric shapes and patterns made using wool yarn in various colors.
After the decorative elements have been added, the blanket is embellished with additional materials such as sequins, beads, or fringes. These details are added by hand using a needle and thread.
Finally, the finished blanket is washed to soften the fibers and give it a cozy texture.
5 styling tips
Moroccan wedding blankets can be a versatile addition to your home decor. Here are some styling tips to help you incorporate these into your interior design:
Use as a Bedspread
Moroccan wedding blankets are traditionally used as a cover for the bride and groom on their wedding day, making them the perfect addition to your bedroom decor. Layer your handira on top of your bedding for an extra cozy and textured look. The neutral tones and intricate designs of the blanket will add depth and interest to your bedding without overwhelming the space.
Drape Over Furniture
If you want to add a touch of bohemian flair to your living room or den, drape a Moroccan wedding blanket over the back of a sofa or armchair. The soft texture and intricate embellishments of the handira will add depth and interest to your furniture, while the neutral tones will complement any color scheme.
Use as a Wall Hanging
Moroccan wedding blankets can also be used as a unique and eye-catching wall hanging. Hang your handira above your bed, on a gallery wall, or in your living room to add a touch of texture and bohemian charm to your space. If you have a large blank wall, you can even use multiple handiras to create a stunning and eclectic gallery wall.
Style with Pillows
Moroccan wedding blankets can also be used to create a cohesive and bohemian look when styled with pillows. Choose pillows with similar colors or patterns to your handira and layer them on your bed or sofa for a coordinated and chic look. The addition of the handira will add depth and texture to your pillow styling, creating a cozy and inviting space.
Layer with Other Textures
To add even more depth and interest to your decor, layer your Moroccan wedding blanket with other textures and materials. For example, layer your handira with a cozy faux fur throw or a woven basket for a cozy and eclectic look. The contrast between different textures will add depth and interest to your space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
finally...
Moroccan wedding blankets are a beautiful and unique textile that is steeped in history, tradition, and symbolism. These blankets represent the beauty and richness of culture and are a testament to the skill, creativity, and dedication of the artisans who create them.
Whether used as a decorative accent in your home or cherished as a family heirloom, a Moroccan wedding blanket is a timeless and meaningful addition to any collection.
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