Al Dente
Al Dente
2024
Handwoven Cotton, Silk, Ilala Palm, Bamboo, Brass
120 cm w x 102.5 cm h
Al Dente is an original fine art textile, woven by hand in Cape Town by Leila Walter using locally sourced & vintage, natural fibres & ancient craft practices. A timeless piece which embodies the resonance of natural materials, elevated through ancient craft techniques and contemporary simplicity.
"I am the proud owner of two beautiful Crosspolynations shawls. One accompanies me to yoga, and wraps me on summer days. It is woven from the softest cotton thread and is finely detailed in ochre. The other, my 'second skin' is my constant companion, light and warm, an unusual combination of soft cotton and wool. The natural colouring of warm cream and a gentle burnt Sienna is hi lighted with strands of russet mohair. This beauty once fell out of my car in Parkview Johannesburg, for days I searched and asked each shop owner and everyone on the street.... 4 days later an angel car guard named Chiro returned to the area and there it was, neatly folded in his modest back pack, he had kept it safely for me. It's a treasure! Many thanks to Leila and her fine artistry. a hand woven cloth carries the essence of its maker." - Louise Almon
"Crosspolynations combines beautiful, artisanal textures with spectacular service. Founder, Leila Walter, designs an array of unique and sensuously tactile throws, wraps, pillow cases and tapestries. To own a Crosspolynations textile is to own a functional piece of art a great gift for others, as well as yourself. Cannot recommend highly enough!" - Amy Zaaiman
"I am the proud owner of a few Crosspolynations pieces. The pieces are beautifully woven with high quality cotton and wool. My scarf and cloth are versatile and feel luxurious to wear. Leila customer service is amazing, always happy to answer questions" - Catherine Cartwright
"There is something so special about this cloth, the process and the whole ethos behind the making of it. One of the very few brands where I literally want to buy everything that they make. High quality, often individual pieces made with locally sourced materials. Every detail is considered and you can really feel the love and artistry with which all these beautiful textiles are made." - Brad Williams
"I have the cocoon scarf in moss and it is utterly gorgeous. The craftsmanship is incredible and it is soft and warm.I wear mine all vear round" - Claudia