Textiles · Fes, Marrakech
Cactus Silk Cushion Cover
Shimmering cushion covers with geometric or abstract embroidered patterns. Made from sabra (cactus silk), a fiber extracted from agave plants.
History & Cultural Context
Sabra fiber has been used in Moroccan textiles for centuries. Despite the name, it is not true silk but a plant-based fiber with a natural luster. The fabric is hand-loomed and then embroidered with metallic or contrasting threads.
Materials
- Sabra (cactus silk)Plant fiber from agave/aloe with natural sheen
- Embroidery threadMetallic or contrasting colored threads for patterns
Production Techniques
- Hand-loom weavingTraditional
Sabra thread woven on traditional floor looms
- Hand embroideryTraditional
Geometric or floral patterns stitched by hand
Production Notes
Sabra fiber is extracted from agave leaves, spun into thread, and woven on hand looms. Patterns are embroidered by hand. Production per cushion cover: 2–4 days.
Quality Indicators
Authenticity
Quality
Red Flags
Price Ranges
Small covers, simple patterns, may be partly synthetic
Standard size, genuine sabra, detailed embroidery
Large format, complex multi-color embroidery, matched sets