One of the fun things about living in Africa is the incredible fabrics. While many African countries have similar types, each place has its own distinctive themes and popular patterns. I hope to someday be able to tell them apart.
M was in the market for a new piece of kitenge fabric to have a skirt made with, and I decided I wanted one, too. Beth, the girls and I looked at the shops in Monduli. The best one, Mama Joeli's Tailoring, is at the bus station. We found some nice ones, but there are many more and bigger shops around the market in Arusha, so we decided to wait and look there before buying anything.
The fabric usually comes in three-meter precut pieces, and usually costs 25000-35000 shillings (twelve to seventeen dollars). There are so many fun colors and patterns to choose from!
There are three main types: 
Kitenge, which is thick and heavy, often with a waxy finish. It is used for many things, including clothing, wraps, curtains, and tablecloths.
Different patterns (baskets, birds, fruit, etc.) have names and meanings so a woman's choice in fabric to wear can send a message.
Kanga, which is thinner and lighter. It is usually used as a wrap, but it can be used for clothes if it's lined. These often have a message somewhere on them in Swahili, usually proverbs, slogans, aphorisms, or a religious thought.
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| It says "The love of God does not count wrongs." |
Kikoy, which is woven. It's usually used for wraps or in home decor.
There are many seamstresses and tailors here who make custom dresses and skirts; women wear them a lot here in everyday life, but especially for special occasions. I'm looking forward to getting one myself!
If you'd like to read more about the history of these fabrics, here are some links:
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