Questions About the Guide Center

Answers about navigating the catalog, understanding textile documentation, and getting in touch with the studio.

Every piece in the catalog carries a documentation sheet that lists the workshop or region of origin, the weaving technique used, the natural dye sources, and the estimated hours of handwork. You will find this information on each product page, usually below the description. If a detail is missing, it means the workshop could not verify it, and we prefer to leave it blank rather than guess.

How is each textile documented?

Use the filters at the top of the catalog to sort by palette, region, or piece type. If you are working on an interior project, start with the palette filter, since the natural dye range is limited to what cochineal, indigo, and native plants can produce. That gives you a realistic view of available tones before you consider size or weave.

What is the best way to browse the collection?

Fair trade certification is verified at the cooperative level, not per piece. Each workshop we work with holds a current certification, and the certificate number is listed on the workshop profile. The product page shows which cooperative made the piece, so you can cross-check the certificate before ordering.

How does fair trade certification work here?

Lead times vary by piece type. A cushion cover may take three to four weeks, while a large wall tapestry can take two to three months, depending on the density of the weave. The estimated time is listed on each product page and reflects the actual handwork, not shipping time. If you need a piece by a specific date, contact us before ordering so we can confirm feasibility.

How long does a piece take to make?

Yes. We work with interior designers and boutique hotels on custom palettes and dimensions. The process starts with a conversation about your space, then we check with the workshops whether the requested size and colors are achievable with natural dyes. Custom pieces follow the same documentation and certification standards as the regular catalog.

Can I commission a custom piece for a project?

If you have questions about a specific piece, an order, or a custom commission, write to info@chaskastudio.com with the product name or your project details. For urgent matters, call +27(57)1059222 during studio hours. We usually respond within two working days.

How do I reach the studio with a question?

Find the Right Path Through the Collection

Not sure where to start? These guides help you locate pieces by palette, region, or technique, so you can move through the catalog with a clear direction.

Direct Help from the Studio

If a piece in the catalogue raises a question about provenance, dye lot, or delivery timing, write to info@chaskastudio.com. We answer within two working days, usually sooner. For urgent matters about an existing order, call +27(57)1059222 between 9:00 and 17:00 South African time. You can also visit the workshop at 97296 Cornelius Radial, Nkosinathibury, KZN 4810, though it is wise to book ahead so a weaver can set aside time for you.

What to Expect After You Write

Every message is read by a person who knows the collection, not a bot. If your question concerns a specific textile, include the piece name or the code printed on its certificate. We will confirm the technique, the region of origin, and the fair trade documentation attached to that item. For guidance on choosing between collections, see the contact page for the full studio directory and opening hours.

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