Selvedge - Issue: 128 Routes

Selvedge Issue 128, December 2025, examines the profound connections between trade and textiles throughout history. From medieval wool tariffs to modern container ships, this issue traces how commerce has shaped material culture across continents. Discover the maritime networks that linked Asia, Africa, and Europe through dhows and tea clippers, where cloth served as both commodity and currency. Explore the complex histories of indigo and cotton, celebrating the Indian artisans whose skill created textiles for every market. Learn how contemporary designers like Uma Wang and Mariana Silva Varela continue this legacy of cross-cultural exchange, transforming traditional techniques into innovative creations that honor shared heritage while pushing creative boundaries forward.