Bai Tie-Dyeing Techniques

Tie-dyeing, anciently called "jiaoxie," is an ancient textile dyeing technique. It is still preserved in Zhoucheng Village (Dali) and Weishan County. Zhoucheng is renowned as the "Hometown of Ethnic Tie-Dyeing."

Historical records indicate dyeing and weaving existed in Dali during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Tang Dynasty Nanzhao dance costumes, Ming Dynasty Eryuan red cloth, and Qing Dynasty Xizhou cloth were all made using tie-dyeing. In modern times, Zhoucheng became a famous weaving and dyeing village.

Tie-dyeing uses white cotton or linen fabric dyed with plant indigo (locally called banlangen). Key steps include designing, tying, soaking, dyeing, steaming, drying, untying, and pressing. Critical skills are tying techniques and dyeing mastery. Tools include dye vats, rods, drying racks, and stone rollers. Patterns are natural, balanced, and auspicious, valued for both aesthetics and utility, and well-received globally.

Bai tie-dyeing reflects strong folk art styles. Over a thousand patterns showcase Bai history, customs, and aesthetics, forming a rich textile culture.

Current industrialization threatens traditional techniques, diminishes uniqueness, increases pollution, and causes indigo shortages due to profit-driven demand. Solving these issues is essential to preserve and develop the craft.