Vlisco

Vlisco is a Dutch manufacturer of wax-printed cotton fabrics, predominantly popular in West and Central Africa. The company, founded in 1846, originally aimed to imitate Indonesian batik fabrics using mechanized techniques. These "wax Hollandais" fabrics, however, found a more receptive market in Africa than in Indonesia.

Vlisco fabrics are characterized by their vibrant colors, bold patterns, and a unique wax-resist dyeing process that creates distinctive crackling effects. These fabrics hold significant cultural and economic importance in many African communities. They are used for clothing, ceremonial occasions, and as symbols of status and wealth. Different patterns often carry specific meanings and can communicate social messages.

The fabrics are often referred to by a variety of names, including "Dutch wax," "wax hollandais," or simply "African wax prints," although the latter term encompasses a wider range of wax-printed fabrics from various manufacturers. Vlisco's designs are protected by copyright, but imitations are prevalent in the market. The company continues to innovate and produce new designs while maintaining its historical connection to its origins.