But what is Africa day?

... a quick history lesson In 1885 European leaders met at the Berlin Conference 1884-85 also known as "The scramble for Africa" conference to divide Africa and draw up borders that exist to this day... attended by representatives of Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Great Britain, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, the USA, Turkey, France, and Sweden... on 25th May 1963 the Organization of African Unity which later became #AfricanUnion was established in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia (a most beautiful building if you get to visit you must!) in a bid to promote African unity amongst other issues.

The picture shows two of the founding fathers of the AU #ethiopia #HaileSelassie and #ghana #KwameNkrumah on their way to attend the first ever OAU/AU meeting. #africaday (credit @tshepymatloga )

So we want to bring Africa to your house and to give you two mystery sewist kit boxes so you have one to gift to a fellow sewist friend too!

What is inside the boxes you ask?

They are mystery boxes so you will receive a box with
- African fabric (this could be waxprint or african handprinted OR african handwoven fabric) at least 2metres
- sewing pattern
- sewing pattern instructions
- all the notions and trims for the set pattern
- Wax and Wraps waxprint pencil
- Info card about African countries
- Swatch Card of an African fabric
- free gift from me to you!

And both boxes will differ so you will have double surprise but the offer is only open until Friday midnight UK time so grab yourself a BOGOF deal today!

https://www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1/africa-day-bogof-offer

Select the Afro sewist one off box and you’ll receive two

We are excited to share our trial boxes are now available so you can try us out see link here: https://www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe/trial-box
Also note that our 2022 boxes for subscriptions (go to www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe) 

So it is time to share the next sewing project and kit - one that's sure to brighten up the winter days and your back to gym fashion! You’ll be creating a two pieced fitness outfit - bra top and shorts. Choose to make mini gym shorts or instead make the cycling shorts, all using the most softest spandex stretch ankara in a popular waxprint design "Leaf Trail"

We continue to educate whilst keeping it African for whatever contemporary style we bring.

Do look out for an upcoming blog series that breaks down different African waxprints

This sewing kit was posted January 2022.

Firstly lets look at th project this month:

You'll use the paper sewing pattern with instructions provided to sew up your fitness kit in your chosen size. This pattern goes up to womens size 3X. The pattern is perfect for beginners and is a quick project to sew. For more advanced sewists you can adapt to include your own details!

Then, using the materials, trims, and all included and provided, you will turn your fabric into a outfit that will make you stand out from the gym crowd

You will love my mixed design, do see youtube where I include all my sewing makes. Do suscribe and support my aims to grow my channel to 1000 subscribers by the summer. 

So lets look inside the box it is truly a dream!

So this month you are encouraged to sew a fitness outfit sewing pattern given to you as part of your african sewing kit inside the box for all that gym work you will be kickstarting or contnuing. Each month there will be something new for you to make for you, a gift for a friend or the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own 2 piece outfit!

Your box includes:

• 2 yards of stretch ankara fabric
• a crop top and gym/cycling short paper sewing pattern
• threads to match
• stretch lining fabric
• elastic tape for waistband
• elastic tape for underband
• your very own Wax+Wraps waxprint pencil
• PLUS a ankara gift to make your sneaks look as amazing as you do too on your morning run! These african print shoelaces have been handmade in Uganda. 

You’ll also have your step-by-step photo instructions, my video sew up online and some creative inspiration for you!

Want in?

Be a part of the club? Easy!

You are in just by signing up for the Wax+wraps African Print Subscription Box and get your african sewing kits sent to you monthly!

January box deadline is 15th and boxes are shipped between 15-28th of the month

Subscribe at link: www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe
.
A special box guaranteed to give your wardrobe a seasonal feeling this start of new year!

What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this spring. Don't miss out on our Ghana box. 

If you also love the fabric and want more, don't worry, do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

Many don't know that it was after facing multiple redundancies and job losses, that I, Jacqueline Shaw, a fashion design industry professional, used the opportunity of Covid-19 lockdowns to kickstart Wax+Wraps, a new fabric sewing subscription box. I saw it combining sewing crafts, with African sourced and handmade fabrics with an impact story – and do this by offering monthly projects, sew-a-long videos, and even online group support for members.
 
“During the first lockdown we have all been at home. I noticed how the crafts and sewing hobby market has been gaining traction and saw how the pandemic was causing many to return to sewing and many made masks for families or for sale. I was wondering, as a business coach and industry leader, how I could help serve my clients and people more.

I had a subscription-based businesses previously and saw the power of this model and doing that with an African focus as a solution. I launched Wax+Wraps alongside training a group of my students to show them how to do it too.”

This week we were featured in the Black Beauty and Hair magazine newspaper and there you can learn more about my story starting Wax+Wraps how I was "failing to find a sewing subscription that also had impact with every box, so decided to create my own, using my network in Africa."

Along with sourcing Africa’s popular, colourful prints directly from African waxprint houses, I focused predominantly on sourcing textiles from African artisans who had been challenged by the impact of lockdown, and who had skills in handprinted or handwoven fabrics because I believe we the consumers are the change we want to see.

Read more on the article here: https://www.blackbeautyandhair.com/wax-and-wraps-sewing-service-subscription/

We are excited to share our trial boxes are now available so you can try us out see link here: https://www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe/trial-box
Also note that our 2022 boxes will open January 1st for subscriptions (go to www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe) 

So today with my focus being on handwoven textiles it seemed most fitting to make todays blog about that plus to remind you of how you can learn more about many more African textiles.

This video had the most views on our instagram page I believe because of the fascinating nature of the production of the textile.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/COirgH5Fvp_/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

It was a video of a kente weaver weaving new cloth. Have a look and watch the full video

Have you ever considered using this type of textile?

Maybe learning more about it will help you decide.

You see Handwoven cloth is done on a loom which is a wooden tool built for weaving using the weft and warp.

The looms differ and are similar between countries.

Some are done as strips such as in Ghana for Kente cloth or in Mali for their bogolan textile base fabric. And some use wide looms like in Burkina Faso or Ivory Coast for their dan fani cloth or in Ethiopia for their shemma cloth.

For the looms most are built in the lying down positioning but for some artisans the looms are standing. Such as seen in Nigeria for their cloths such as their akwete cloths

Notoriously textiles are made using cotton yarns and threads some countries african artisan weavers will include lurex threads in their weaving.

These are examples you will find from our suppliers at our sourcing platform
 @fashionafricatradeexpo that use weaving on the looms to product the cloths and some finished goods 

Sound interesting to you?

Let's meet up this week to share more on the topic.

It’s been a while since we met live so good news is that this Tuesday 2nd November I’ll be hosting a webinar on African textiles and those who join will gain access to hot news I’m revealing first to those on the webinars.

First up is a 40minute training around the story of African textiles that i recently showed via a presentation to the staff from TFL - Transport for London for Black History Month which was truly an honour.

If you want to start using african textiles but think waxprint fabric is your only option then my friend you will be wowed with what I’ll be bringing you and showing you on the webinar on Tuesday 2nd November. We kick off at 6pm U.K. time.

Send me a message at hello@waxandwraps with the word webinar for the zoom link

There will be no replay.

Details will be sent via email so no need to sign up just send me an email for the link details

This is why we are focusing on Nigeria this month of October for the country focus of our boxes.

Such moments in the last 60 years since Nigeria became independent from British rule include moments like the Biafra civil war that divided the country due to cultural groups. @chimamanda_adichie book Half Of A Yellow Sun depicted this in strong ways (I preferred the book over the movie though loved the actors in the film)

Moments more recently like the protests over the chibok girls and the slogan bring back our girls one I stood by and protested for too.

And celebratory moments like Nigeria winning Miss World @AgbaniDarego was the first local African to win this in 2001.

And we all know Nigeria has been one of the strongest African leaders in areas like Fashion and style, music, oil, tech in Africa, and should I even go there with food and ultimately the jollof wars have been ongoing lol so I’ll let you decide.

Either way I celebrate Nigeria today and every day. And why the baby photo ... no its not me or my own baby BUT... well... just look at her in her Iro and buba wear! I will so dress up my babies in traditional african clothing

With all this in mind I’ll be launching our
1️⃣ ebook pdf mini guide guide to waxprint and

2️⃣ also will be sharing textile stories throughout the month over on https://www.instagram.com/waxandwraps/

3️⃣ Lastly our special edition culture box for black history month will be available from October 1st and limited quantities available

Our October box country is revealed as Nigeria and the sewing project and box reveal will all take place over the next week.

Watch this space!

Remember you can get a subscription month by month, bi-monthly, or Even subscribe and save with a 6/12 month commitment plan or now get one of our trial boxes and save 50% off your first box whilst you try us out!
And I will look to see you in a letterbox near you soon!

We are excited to share our trial boxes are now available so you can try us out see link here: https://www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe/trial-box
Also note that our October box will open Oct 1st for subscriptions (go to www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe) 

This week we were featured in the Voice newspaper and there you can learn more about my story starting Wax+Wraps how I was "failing to find a sewing subscription that also had impact with every box, so decided to create my own, using my network in Africa."

Along with sourcing Africa’s popular, colourful prints directly from African waxprint houses, I focused predominantly on sourcing textiles from African artisans who had been challenged by the impact of lockdown, and who had skills in handprinted or handwoven fabrics because I believe we the consumers are the change we want to see.

Read more on the article here: https://www.voice-online.co.uk/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/2021/09/20/have-you-heard-of-the-african-artisan-sourced-fabric-sewing-service/

We are excited to share our trial boxes are now available so you can try us out see link here: https://www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe/trial-box
Also note that our October box will open Oct 1st for subscriptions (go to www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe) 

We are nearly one year in since we launched Wax+Wraps so I am looking back and noted down what they said when they received their first box this September.

“I was pleasantly surprised when I went to my mailbox this afternoon. I'm in Texas and look my fabric tube has arrived. Thanks Jacqueline, you and your team !!”
- Cynthia

“My box - well, tube - arrived today!! I'm so happy! This fabric is so bright and lovely. Unwrapping it felt like Christmas. The fabrics are so beautiful and I can't wait to use them!”
– Catalina

“Yaaay! My box reached the Highlands”
- Justine

“Ok so as many others I am not sure that I would have picked the colours but thats what is great about the box. You get to use colours that you would normally avoid and it stretches your mind and imagination. The more I look at them the more I love them”
- Lorraine

“ I have finally received my box , so  excited with the fabrics ... Can not wait to start being creative!”
- Karen

"Such incredible attention to detail Jacqueline! Well done. I didn’t realise the box would include a pattern and am terribly impressed. Thank you.”
- Margaret

“Jacqueline well done on your first boxes …you are handling everything so professionally because your customer service skills are brilliant”

– Dorcas

“Waaaaaaahh I'm so happy my box did arrive!!! Loving my fabrics and the fabric swatch is absolutely gorgeous!!! This box is even better than expected and everything has been put together with great care and love in even the smallest detail!”

- Jojo

Curious why they are so happy?

If you are a homesewer or a lover of headwraps then join those above, just dive in here to subscribe to our new African Prints Subscription Boxes

Those who subscribe for my Sewist box subscription will automatically be part of my African Print Sewing Club!

Keen to jump on board? Want to be join the club too?

Then subscribe at the link below for my all new Wax and Wraps - African Prints Subscription Box.

Let’s have fun with prints!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CSJ5bqzKkNa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

includes a trip I took to Kampala, Uganda where I stayed near Lake Victoria Serena Resort I visited designers and even mentored for a small business owner whilst there. Then the video concludes with a take on the fabric being handmade for our August box

We are working with a business owned by another female Ugandan plus our gift of the month is from a Ugandan business with artisans that makes crafts by hand

Officially the Republic of Uganda (Swahili: Jamhuri ya Uganda), is a landlocked country in East Africa.

Uganda obtained formal independence on October 9, 1962.

Uganda is bordered by South Sudan to the north, Kenya to the east, Tanzania and Rwanda to the south, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The capital city, Kampala, is built around seven hills not far from the shores of Lake Victoria, which forms part of the frontier with Kenya and Tanzania.

Uganda is named after the Buganda kingdom, which encompasses a large portion of the south of the country, including the capital Kampala. The people of Uganda were hunter-gatherers until 1,700 to 2,300 years ago, when Bantu-speaking populations migrated to the southern parts of the country.

Now on to the fabric we are using for our August box!

I recently ordered yardage handwoven fabrics from our supplier in Uganda.

The cotton is locally sourced.

The fabric is made on wide looms.

The weavers are both male and female. Trained by a master weaver.

It’s woman owned by a mother of two called Sharon a woman with a heart and a vision to build business and trade opportunities in her home country of Uganda.

We will be using this fabric to make our sewing project for august. It will test a beginner and more experienced sewists are encouraged to add their own design to it.

You see now why we say we are #noordinarysewingsubscription our boxes are #noordinarysewingkits but we are a #waxandwrapssubscriptionbox

Our boxes are about more than sewing but education and impact as well as fun too!

Why not come on board get your box this month of August a s subscribe to a plan where you can save up to 20% off per box!

Let’s go!

Our August box is now open for subscriptions head to link in bio or go to www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe

with an entry feature on Wax and Wraps!

See image below.

So firstly I want to thank the team at SIMPLY SEWING MAGAZINE FOR THE FEATURE. Being STILL A NEW BUSINESS IN YEAR ONE SINCE LAUNCH THIS feature of my new business baby is not just an honour but a blessing.

So whilst you grab your copy of your magazine and check us out why not decide to be part of the club and subscribe to the NEXT box for @waxandwraps

Just head over to the link here https://www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe and subscribe before the 15th of the month to gain access to our African Sewing Kits monthly

Now you can save up to 20% with a 6 month or 12 month commitment plan too!

Whats not to love hey!

Oh and do make sure to follow @waxandwraps on instagram,

tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@waxandwraps

and youtube > https://www.youtube.com/c/JacquelineShaw/videos

All boxes will be delivered from the 15th - 28th

Can you believe that even though tech seems to be a major challenge right now as the website was taking longer than forever and a day to get out, that Wax and Wraps is not just getting more and more awesome subscribers BUT that we are attracting press too!

Not just Brother machines have said they will post about W+W but also Love Sewing magazine too!

I received in the post a copy of their issue 85 magazine with an entry feature on Wax and Wraps! See image below.

So firstly I want to thank the team at @lovesewingmag for this. Being the first press feature of my new business baby, it is not just an honour but a blessing.

So whilst you grab your copy of your magazine and check us out why not decide to be part of the club and subscribe to the latest box for @waxandwraps 

Subscribe before the 15th of the month to gain access and note each Month Box has an African country theme

And do make sure to follow @waxandwraps on instagram too.

All boxes will be delivered from 15th - 28th

Can you believe that even though tech seems to be a major challenge right now and the website is taking longer than forever and a day to get out that Wax and Wraps is not just getting more and more awesome subscribers BUT that we are attracting press too!

Not just Brother machines have said they will post about W+W but also Love Sewing magazine too!

Monday I received in the post a copy of their issue 85 magazine with an entry feature on Wax and Wraps! See image below.

So firstly I want to thank the team at @lovesewingmag for this. Being the first press feature of my new business baby, it is not just an honour but a blessing.

J ... do you get it ... I still have NOT officially launched Wax and Wraps and look!

So whilst you grab your copy of your magazine and check us out why not decide to be part of the club and subscribe to the September box for @waxandwraps 

subscribe before 15th of Sept to gain the launch price offer on the September box which has the theme of GhanA And do make sure to follow @waxandwraps on instagram too.

All boxes will be delivered from September 15th - 28t

SUBTA CUBE AWARDS is a big award for subscription box business owners. I would highly appreciate you to vote my company @waxandwraps for “best craft / artisan subscription”



If you love www.waxandwraps.com the only African print subscription box for sewing kits using fabric sourced from Africa then vote us to win.



Why? Because if you have had the chance to see the homepage of my website where I share WHY WAX + WRAPS. I said

"Our African print subscription box company was founded because Founder Jacqueline believes in African development using entrepreneurship and Trade over Aid. Each month she sources fabrics from a new African supplier for the monthly boxes and our online shop. This enables textile makers across Africa to gain 100s of new clients via our subscription box orders and this trade contributes to the change Jacqueline hopes to see in Africa through the vehicle of fashion, Pictured are just some of the suppliers we work with at Wax+Wraps"

That is the truth ... this would not just be positive for my business but most importantly for all the artisans we work with in Africa as I believe in trade over just aid.



It takes just a few minutes so do sign up here:



Thanks in advance



https://subsummit.com/cube-awards

It is one box month that I was very much looking forward to revealing with you as there are so many great elements to it for you to enjoy

Firstly lets look outside then look inside:

You will see that this months box cover has been illustrated from a fellow female entrepreneur. called Shanaya from Suriname. I commissioned her to design an illustration that covers al the elements of our African Sewing Kits and I think she has done a great job. This new box will evolve over time but for now this is a fresh additive to our subscribers box collections. BUT for the lovers of our waxprint boxes don't worry I've got you too boo! They will be back.. just mixing things up for you having fun with prints!

The country theme of the May Sewist box is the wonderful country of Ghana or the Gold Coast based in West Africa. Known for its numerous kingdoms and empires that emerged over the centuries, of which the most powerful were the Kingdom of Dagbon, and the Ashanti Empire. Beginning in the 15th century. Following over a century of native resistance, what are now Ghana's borders follow the lines of what were four separate British colonial territories: Gold Coast, Ashanti, the Northern Territories and British Togoland. These were unified as an independent dominion within the Commonwealth of Nations on 6 March 1957. (according to wikipedia)

Ghana is one of my personal favourites in Africa, a relatively safe country to visit with a lot of tourism and business and history. And with strong former presidents like Kwame Nkrumah it is more than fitting to focus on Ghana for Africa Month.

Inside the box is truly a dream!

This month you are encouraged to sew with the romper playsuit sewing pattern given to you as part of your african sewing kit inside the box for all that spring to summer seasonal weather we are experiencing. Each month there will be something new for you to make for you, a gift for a friend or the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own romper in waxprint!

Your box includes:

• 2 yards of handprint batik fabric
• a romper / playsuit sewing pattern
• thread and trims to match
• a fabric swatch card with traditional country cloth fabric
• your very own Wax+Wraps waxprint pencil
• PLUS a make your own DIY craft gift. You will be making a bracelet using classic Krobo beads handmade from recycled glass in Ghana. Watch my video on youtube channel featuring an artisan glass beadmaker and you can see evidence of how they do this.

The swatch sample card features a Country cloth fabric - Kente traditional to Ghana made from local cotton.

Want in?

Be a part of the club? Easy!

You are in just by signing up for the Wax+wraps African Print Subscription Box and get your african sewing kits sent to you monthly!

May box deadline is May 15th and boxes are shipped between 15-28th May

Subscribe at link: www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe
.
A special box guaranteed to give your wardrobe a seasonal feeling this start of spring!

What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this spring. Don't miss out on our Ghana box. 

If you also love the fabric and want more, don't worry, do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

Sierra Leone, is based in West Africa and known for the white-sand beaches lining the Freetown Peninsula. The capital city, Freetown, commemorates the nation’s slave-trade history with the Cotton Tree landmark and King’s Yard Gate. Both were known as places of refuge for returned slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries. This is why it has a special significance in the history of the transatlantic slave trade as the departure point for thousands of West African captives.!

We were able to have some beautiful batik fabric made by a woman owned business. So I collaborated with a batiker who has a talent for crafting quality prints using the handmade technique and you’ll be getting fabrics made by them. Edwina put together a khaki green, orange and white batik on a cotton brocade fabric and when I saw it I just thought it was so fitting to make a trench coat design this month! 

The swatch sample card also features a Country cloth fabric traditional to Sierra Leone made from local cotton.

Want in?

Be a part of the club? Easy!

You are in just by signing up for the Wax+wraps African Print Subscription Box and get your african sewing kits sent to you monthly!

April box deadline is April 15th and boxes are shipped between 15-28th April

Subscribe at link: www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe
.
A special box guaranteed to give your wardrobe a seasonal feeling this start of spring!

You are encouraged to sew with the trench coat sewing pattern given to you as part of your sewing kit inside the box for all that spring seasonal weather coming up. Each month there will be something new for you to make for you, a gift for a friend or the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own cushion in waxprint!

Your box includes:

• 4 yards of handprint batik fabric
• a trench coat sewing pattern
• threads to match
• a fabric swatch card with traditional country cloth fabric
• your very own Wax+Wraps waxprint pencil

What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this spring. Don't miss out on our Sierra Leoneon box. 

If you also love the fabric and want more, don't worry, do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

Usually they are just one week and separate to our box projects, but now you can join in to the project concept in the box and decide to sew along with the subscribers. 

For March we are making a two piece loungewear outfit for our March boxes and you are invited to join.

Are you in?

Subscribers you’ll get access to a private video training sessions on YouTube. Details will be sent by email to you. 

**Not a subscriber? Sign up today and receive the full sewing kit with patterns fabrics trims and trainings!**

Subscribe here www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe only until the 15th though!

Now scroll down to see more information and see just how this will work.

Are you in? Comment below and do let me know. I love to hear from you.

Key information for those who are in...

Dates: 5-28th March.

Must dos:

1) find a pattern of two piece - you choose its design but the more interesting the better

2) choose 3-4yards maximum of waxprint/african print/ankara (get some fabric from waxandwraps.com/shop-1 if needed)

3) get sewing!

4) One it’s done tag @waxandwraps on instagram (use facebook if you don’t have an instagram account) and use the words

>>> I took part in the #SewWithAnkaraChallenge with @waxandwraps <<<

5) I will make a note of all who do and at the end of the month I’ll share the fastest sewer makers on the wax and wraps social pages and emails and let our community select the best.

6) The winner gets a surprise gift!

****BONUS POINTS**** for those who tag a friend on instagram to follow @waxandwraps and join our monthly SEW WITH ANKARA CHALLENGE

Today we begin and you have until March 28th to sew with ankara/waxprint!

Let's go!

Oh do you need some fabric?

Then you can go to our online shop - see link below to order some and I will send them out to you quick sharp so you don't miss out on the challenge.

Www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

Soooo our unboxing video for our special edition box is now live on my new youtube channel.
it's a quick one to watch.
>>>> here is the link https://youtu.be/ztnhthbz5dq

Could you head over there and support my personal youtube channel by please subscribing and i promise to bring you weekly sewing videos to help you along too!
oooohh i can't wait!

so do subscribe to my new channel leave a comment and like the video >>> https://youtu.be/ztnhthbz5dqDid you want in for the box too?


Remember these ones are limited - only 15 available - so do grab yours let me know early which Chimamanda book you want and I will make sure to add that one to your box.


You can get your box here www.waxandwraps.com
Let's go!

BUT i have yet ANOTHER surprise this month for you! Keep an eye on the next blog as I will send that out shortly



Surely you must agree my love for my fellow sewists is strong right :)

I also showed just how Actress Rosario Dawson has inspired our seasonal Batiks too!

Image above copyright Getty Images

I was also ecstatic to share that I have curated and opened sales for our Special Edition Christmas box!

YEP!

Because.. come on .. it is that time of year ;) right and I know you will probably want to gift someone special a little something special ... and why not a box of goodies straight from not one but 4 African countries!

Now this is NOT our recent November or our upcoming December box but instead it’s a specially curated Limited Edition box.

I am bringing you an African culture box bringing you lots of amazing products specially made and shipped in from Ghana, Togo, Kenya and Tanzania!

You can expect jewellery, fans, sewing kits plus Waxprint ... and OMG these prints are extra extra special!

I showcased a few pieces from the box on our live and will do a special box reveal this weekend for you too.

So for now do head over to our website to grab yourself a box!

www.waxandwraps.com

But hurry! Only 30 boxes available and once gone well ... they are gone and nearly half are already sold...eek! Deadline to order is Cyber Monday but I think they will sell out by then.

I will post them out latest Dec 1st so you have them in time for Christmas but likely I will post them before then

On a side note isn’t our special Christmas edition box print the cutest!

Grab your one as a gift did you or do like others are doing get two and gift one to a loved one!

Link here: www.waxandwraps.com

Now...go get your Christmas box and get ready to Have Fun With Prints!

Jacqueline
Founder - Wax+Wraps

For the craft...for the culture

So I collaborated with a batiker called Nuru a man who has a talent for crafting quality prints using the handmade technique and you’ll be getting fabrics made by him. Lining up with the Autumnal season the prints display a beautiful leaf prints with highlights of gold leaf feel flowing throughout.

The swatch sample card also features a Masaai cloth fabric traditional to East African countries Tanzania and Kenya. 

Then the traditional waxprint fabric is printed in Africa as well. The waxprint connects with the remembrance day theme this month with a gorgeous red poppy style flower all over!

Want in?

Be a part of the club? Easy!

You are in just by signing up for the Wax+wraps African Print Subscription Box

November box deadline is November 16th and boxes are shipped between 15-28th November

Subscribe at link: www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe
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A special box guaranteed to give your wardrobe a seasonal feeling this November.

You are encouraged to sew with the apron sewing pattern given to you as part of your sewing kit inside the box for all that holiday cooking you have been planning. Each month there will be something new for you to make for the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own cushion in waxprint!

Your box includes:

• 2 yards waxprint
• 2 yards leaf print batik fabric
• a chef style apron sewing pattern
• threads to match
• a fabric swatch card with traditional Masaai shuka cloth fabric
• your very own Wax+Wraps gift - Masaai bead earrings!

What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this November. Don't miss out on our Tanzanian box. 

If you also love the fabric and want more, don't worry, do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

Firstly we celebrate Nigeria through its traditional Adire fabric. This has been made by an Adire specialist called Madu who also runs an Adire school training others in the craft. You can be assured your fabric was handmade and handprinted just for our boxes.

For Black History Month this is a time in the UK where the stories and the lenses that we discuss black ancestry through, gets disrupted. Where we start changing up the narrative and exchanging that with the truth and the reality.

Black history is also NOT just looking at the transatlantic slave trade that ties in with African history Caribbean history and that of the diaspora but also most importantly highlighting the forgotten and untold stories.

Stories like that from my own Jamaican heritage - the Maroons, as well as the many queens in Africa who did well for their people, like Queen Nzingha. Or how about those who were inventors, doctors, creators, pioneers before world history records rubbed away their names and replaced it with someone else who wasn't black?

This uncomfortable truth is not a post to downgrade the non-black person but instead to highlight the truth and reveal other stories about the black person. And our boxes are just one way to shine a new light on the fashion and textiles that are made by the African skilled craftsperson on the continent and tell new stories for the future historians.

The swatch sample card also features another Nigerian fabric often not mentioned. This cloth is called Ita-inochi of the Ebira cultural group. 

Then the traditional waxprint fabric printed in Africa as well has a story to tell. Using the adinkra symbol from West Africa called "Dwennimmen" that literally meaning "ram's horns". This symbolizes that even the strong have to also be humble. Here, the rams' horns symbolize strength and humility through the characteristics of a ram.

Want in?

Be a part of the club? Easy!

You are in just by signing up for the Wax+wraps African Print Subscription Box

October box deadline is October 15th and boxes are shipped between 15-28th October.

Subscribe at link: www.waxandwraps.com/subscribe
.
A special box guaranteed to lighten up your wardrobe this October. 

You are encouraged to sew with the frilled cushion sewing pattern given to you as part of your sewing kit inside the box. Each month there will be something new for you to wear, for the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own cushion in waxprint!

Your box includes:

• 2 yards waxprint
• 2 yards green adire print
• a cushion sewing pattern
• threads to match
• a fabric swatch card with traditional Nigerian fabric
• your very own Wax+Wraps waxprint graphic pencil, 
• a collectible card from our Wax+Wraps playing card pack and 
• an African Prints Sewing Club badge!

What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this October. 

Don't miss out on our October Ghana box. 

If you also love the fabric and want more, don't worry do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

For the batik that has been made specifically for you, we worked with a long running supplier partner and batiker called Edwina, based in the town of Tema. Edwina is an expert in her field with many years of experience and she hires local women providing them with training and employment. 

Alongside the batik you will find a swatch sample card that features Ghana's most notorious fabric called Kente. This historic and traditional textile is part of Ghanaian culture and heritage. You will know true Kente by the fact it has been woven and NOT printed. Subscribers will find insights to the story of Kente on the back of the swatch with a country info card. 

You are encouraged to sew with the woven tee shirt sewing pattern given to you as part of your sewing kit inside the box. Each month there will be something new for you to wear, for the family or even for the home! What could you imagine making with the fabrics in this box?

You’ll have everything you need to make your very own woven tee

Your box includes:

2 yards waxprint

2 yards blue batik print

a woven tee shirt sewing pattern

threads to match

a fabric swatch card with traditional Ghanaian fabric

your very own Wax+Wraps waxprint graphic pencil, 

a collectible card from our Wax+Wraps playing card pack and 

an African Prints Sewing Club badge!

Our Ghana box is the first from the country but you can be sure we will bring you more. But with 54/55 African country states you can be sure to know that we have a lot more up our sleeves for you. What ever happens our African Print Subscription Box is guaranteed to help you smile this September. 

Missed out on our September Ghana box but love the fabric? 

Don't worry do check out the Wax+Wraps shop because there may still be some fabrics there for you. Or even grab yourself a Wax+Wraps Waxprint Pencil or Wax+Wraps Playing Card set!

Head over there now - see link: www.waxandwraps.com/shop-1

So HOW can you check?

What do you look for on the fabric if you want to be sure that it came straight from Africa and not from Asia or anywhere else?

How can you have an authentic African print?

• First check the handle of the fabric if quality is cotton or cotton/poly mix - the later is a cheaper quality and African factories and print houses are known to use higher quality being 100% cotton.
  
• Then secondly check the edge of the fabric known as the selvedge - there is a code there. It often says there the brand of the fabric - which company, and where it’s made - for example the company hitarget is a Chinese brand
  
• Third the sticker details will or should say again where it is from, how much the yardage is and what the quality and composition of the fabric is.
  
• Fourth check if the print is only on the front or the back too. The better quality prints will show the print all the way through.

A few more checks such as price may also determine too, the authenticity of your print.

Can you believe that even though tech seems to be a major challenge right now as the website was taking longer than forever and a day to get out, that Wax and Wraps is not just getting more and more awesome subscribers BUT that we are attracting press too!

Not just Brother machines have said they will post about W+W but also Love Sewing magazine too!

I received in the post a copy of their issue 85 magazine with an entry feature on Wax and Wraps! See image below.

So firstly I want to thank the team at @lovesewingmag for this. Being the first press feature of my new business baby, it is not just an honour but a blessing.

So whilst you grab your copy of your magazine and check us out why not decide to be part of the club and subscribe to the latest box for @waxandwraps 

Subscribe before the 15th of the month to gain access and note each Month Box has an African country theme

And do make sure to follow @waxandwraps on instagram too.

All boxes will be delivered from 15th - 28th

Can you believe that even though tech seems to be a major challenge right now and the website is taking longer than forever and a day to get out that Wax and Wraps is not just getting more and more awesome subscribers BUT that we are attracting press too!

Not just Brother machines have said they will post about W+W but also Love Sewing magazine too!

Monday I received in the post a copy of their issue 85 magazine with an entry feature on Wax and Wraps! See image below.

So firstly I want to thank the team at @lovesewingmag for this. Being the first press feature of my new business baby, it is not just an honour but a blessing.

J ... do you get it ... I still have NOT officially launched Wax and Wraps and look!

So whilst you grab your copy of your magazine and check us out why not decide to be part of the club and subscribe to the September box for @waxandwraps 

subscribe before 15th of Sept to gain the launch price offer on the September box which has the theme of GhanA And do make sure to follow @waxandwraps on instagram too.

All boxes will be delivered from September 15th - 28t