(Note: This post was done last year over at CrashTestMommies.Com (we are unfortunately closing the blog because we don’t have time to update it. So I’m transferring all my posts here on Manilamommy.com.So I’m transferring all my posts here for now until we CTMommies decide on what to do next)
Inabel or Abel Iloko is a kind of fabric that is handwoven on large antique wooden looms via a weaving process calledAbel, by the women of Ilocos. I have been gifting Inabel tea towels and table linens for friends and relatives over the past years so when Ethel Bernales of Celestina & Co. emailed me about Juan at Maria, her newest line that sells Inabel baby blankets and sleep sacks, I got excited. Ethel grew up with the Inabel and so she wanted to revive and capture the warmth and elegance of this fabulously handmade Filipino fabric.
a handmade essential
Juan at Maria carries two types of blankets, the Inabel Baby Blanket and the Inabel Infant Sleep Sack. I was able to test the baby blanket when Ethel sent one for my youngest boy Noah.
When I first got it, the fabric was still a bit stiff which was fixed after just one wash with a mild laundry detergent. Ethel pointed out to me that she sources the Inabel from Vigan, which produces the softer kind of textile as opposed to La Union which produces the stiffer ones that are usually used for table linens.
folded
The blanket is generously sized (28’x34″) so I also used it as a playmat, a picnic mat, as a cover for Noah’s stroller. Roll up the blanket and you can also use this as a pillow. The reverse of the blanket is printed and is made of 100% Japanese cotton. The Inabel is also thick enough so that when your baby gets cold, you can bundle him or her up cozily.
colorful prints on japanese cotton on the reverse
This is my favorite blanket for my baby and we take it anywhere with me. This definitely makes a unique and beautiful baby shower and baptismal gift.
Proudly handmade and Proudly Pinoy, you can visit Juan at Maria’s online shop here. The Juan at Maria items are all on sale too!! The blankets are now only Php725 each 🙂
juan at maria packaging is ready for gifting!
Krizzia Pauline A. Bolano says
June 25, 2015 at 6:03 pmWOW!!!!!!!!!The fabrics was so beautiful I’m impressed………