Petel Power: Fabrics from West Africa - Remodelista
A serendipitous Peace Corps posting more than a decade ago is how Kansas native Julie Wagne met her future husband Ibrahima Wagne. The couple became acquainted when Julie was training in Nouakchott Mauritania, where Ibrahima was teaching biology. The couple, who now reside in San Francisco, had been thinking of ways in which they could help the Fulani... ...Ibrahima’s tribe from West Africa. The Wagnes decided to reinvigorate the craft by exporting the textiles outside of West Africa, and so Petel, which means “little spark,” was born. Photos by Sven Wiederholt except where noted. Photograph by Andrea Moore. From L to R: Ibrahima’s aunt, mother, aunt, and sister, all Fulani who weave in the traditional style. Detailed stitching from a vintage Fulani wedding blanket. Limited edition pillowcases made with one-of-a-kind cotton. Above L: Repurposed fabrics are used for many of their products; zip pouches start at $44. Part of the couple’s collection of vintage blankets. It was a gift to Julie from Ibrahima’s mother, Aissata Coumba Tall, when the couple got engaged. The Wagne Family in San Francisco.