Discover VESTI: The T'nalak
The T’nalak is produced through the ikat (resist-dye) technique and considered as a valuable possession used during mo-ninum or wedding ceremonies and exchanged for prized trade goods. T’nalak is a distinctive abaca cloth that traditionally comes in three colors: deep reddish brown, black, and white. Some well-known T’nalak patterns include the bangala (man in house), klung (shield), sawo (python), nipa, g’mayaw(mythical bird) and the tofi (frog), all based on the basic sigul, a zigzag arrangement of triangles or rhombs, comprising the overall pattern set in the cloth.
According to the beliefs, the designs for the T’nalak are conveyed from the weaver’s dreams, and that the spirit of Fu Dalo (guardian of T’nalak designs) begins to reside in the cloth at the start of its production, thus warranting extreme care to prevent breakage of the yarns while weaving.
The T’boli are an indigenous cultural community from the southern and southwestern mountain ranges of South Cotabato, Philippines. Many are concentrated in the area around Lake Sebu, a big and beautiful lake high in the mountains that, according to legend, was born from an act of sharing.
We at VESTI, has made use of these legendary fabrics with our various designs both in the past and at present. However, we are very excited to be sharing with you soon some of our new developments using the T'nalak fabrics that are more elevated, modern, and truly global. Please stay tuned!