Textile manufacturing, one of the oldest handicraft industries in Syria, has been flourishing since the ancient times of Elba, over 4,400 years ago. Famous for the manufacturing of silk material and intricate wood inlay with pearl and ivory; Elba was a great trading city with a sophisticated economic and social system. Until today artisans across Syria and the Middle East still follow the traditions and techniques of ancient the Elba artisans.

Syrian made textiles have hundreds of names each with different variations. Presently, the most famous types of Syrian made textiles include Brocade, Aghabani, Damasco, Saya & Dima. These textiles are versatile and very durable. They have been used to cover furniture, in the manufacturing of clothing, purses, pillows, table linens along with other artistic/decorative items.  Damascene Treasures has focused its imports on Aghabani, Damasco and Saya textiles.

Aghabani Table Linen:

The name 'aghabani' is said to come from the original saffron coloured embroidery as well we the type of stitch used to create the embroidered patters.  In the past, both the material and embroidery were made of silk. However, to accommodate practicality and cost, the material has been commonly replaced with cotton and the embroidery with man-made silk (viscose).  Organza and silk material are still used for Aghabani textiles, but they are a rare commodity and much more expensive. The patterns and designs found on the Aghabani textile comes from surrounding flora in the region. Some experts believe that Aghabani production started in Homs and then moved to Damascus where demand was high for the textile and workers were readily available. Others believe that Aghabani production originated in Damascus.

Known for its versatility, damascene artisans took production of Aghabani and expanded its use on a variety of textile goods including clothing, table linen and pillows. Today the embroidery and manufacturing of Aghabani textiles is produced primarily in two small towns outside Damascus - Douma and Harasta.  The designs are hand carved on wooden moulds and stamped on the material. The stamped material is given to a local seamstress who embroiders the patterns with different coloured thread.

Traditionally, Aghabani table linens are made on white or beige material and accented with white, gold and silver embroidery. Today, we can see the table linens being produced with different colour schemes, a reflection of the change from classic to more artistic forms of expression - mixing tradition with modern appeal. The table cloths come in a variety of sizes with a set of matching napkins. Typically, the width of the tablecloth is 60 inches (1.5 m). The benefit and versatility of Aghabani table linens is that they can be custom made to fit any table size. If you have an uncommon table size, we would be happy to custom make a tablecloth to suit your needs.

Damasco Table Linen:

Originally hand-woven on a weaving machine (called 'nol'), Damasco textiles are the oldest kind of material made in Syria. This textile is called Damasco because it originated from Damascus. Damasco material is famous for its rich colours and vibrant designs which can bring energy to any setting. This versatile and durable cloth can be used for furniture covering, tablecloths, throws, pillowcases, table runners and even purses. A unique feature of Damasco is that it is fully reversible. Each side of the cloth can give a completely different effect. The material can be washed in a washing machine and placed in the dryer. Ironing is not required. Damasco is made of a cotton/viscose blend with a standard material width of 56 inch (1.40 m), the material can be custom made to any length.