Tumbizi African Hand-block Print Table Runner

Table runners complement your table settings by adding colour, texture and a unifying element to your tablescape. Instantly freshen up any table setting, add a touch of elegance and bring a sense of tradition or holiday dejavu to your occasion with this Hand-block Print Red Ochre African Print Table Runner.  Dress up your dining table with style! The unique Zimbabwean hand-block designs are decorative, stylish and will add a touch of elegance to your table and room decor! 

Alternatively, get your creative juices going and turn this piece into a fabulous portrait wall hanging that will speak volumes on your wall… the possibilities are endless!  To say the least, these runners are nothing short of a piece of art. Every inch of the fabric is hand stamped… and if you pay attention to the pattern, you will notice a hidden animal or two incorporated into the design!

Makes a perfect gift!

Key Design Features

• Dimensions: 35.5 cm x 182.8 cm
• Material: 100% cotton
• Beautiful edge-to-edge hand-block printing in vibrant colour
• Edges are sewn with a double fold hem for the perfect finishing touch
• Machine wash cold, dry flat; warm iron as needed
• Printed and handmade in Zimbabwe
• Each runner is uniquely hand printed – no two runners are exactly the same

Please Note: This product is hand printed and made with natural fibres. Irregularities in the fabric create a unique product with every print.

Care instructions:

Warning: When new, the colour of this product may transfer.

Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, only non-chlorine bleach when needed; line dry. 

*Please note: As each item is handmade, small variances may occur in width and  length. Measurements listed are approximate, so please allow a small margin of variation.

Fabric inspiration

The art of hand-block printing has been practiced for centuries. The process requires steady movement and careful hand-eye coordination and involves the use of carved wooden or metal blocks wooden blocks that are dipped in dye to recreate gorgeous designs which showcase a palette of colours that bring these designs to life.

The Gavastie table runners were printed and handmade in Zimbabwe and you are guaranteed an authentic product. 

Interesting fact

The word ‘mbizi’ means ‘zebra’ in the Shona language of Zimbabwe. The Shona culture is rich with totem ‘mitupo’ beliefs and the zebra is one of many animals revered as a ‘totem’ – an animal either edible or harmless or dangerous and feared, more rarely it is a plant or a force of nature (rain, water) which is sacred and deeply intertwined with the dynasty of the Zebra totem clan. People of the Mbizi clan are affectionately referred to as ‘Tembo Mazvimbakupa’ 

Historically, the choice of an animal, reptile, fish or bird for a totem was driven by a survival instinct.

The belief that the chosen creature contributes in some way to the survival of the clan influenced their historical choice. A clan often models itself after an essential attribute of the chosen animal, particularly bravery, courage, speed and wisdom. Interestingly – people from the same totem group are not allowed to marry, as they are considered descendants of one common ancestor (the founder of that totem). 

The Zebra is a strikingly beautiful and graceful animal – and so is the inspiration behind the Gavastie Tumbizi table runner.