Kanga: Me Time/ 'Time Spent on Yourself Is Never Wasted'

Just like bandanas, kangas have a long history the crosses cultures and continents. Some say that kangas originated in Zanzibar in the late 19th century and were made from cheap cotton imported from the US that was dyed locally with indigo. Others say they were brought to East Africa by Portuguese merchants who wanted to sell and trade the cotton fabrics brought from India.

The kanga design is usually made up of 3 parts: the border, the center design and the message or proverb. The message is usually one of wisdom or kindness but there are kangas with political messages and warnings as well. 

Traditionally these are used as shawls, skirts and even baby carriers but they really can be used for almost anything. I use mine as a scarf and a head wrap. You can use it as a scarf, an apron, a pot holder, as gift wrap (or give as a gift!), a table cloth, a picnic blanket, a beach cover-up or hang it on the wall to make a statement.

- 100% Cotton

- about 40" x 70" (it's big!)

- Imported

- Designed in Washington DC

- Comes packaged in a two piece gift box