barkcläde

Barkcläde is a term used to refer to a textile material made from the fibers of tree bark. In English and other languages, its closest counterpart is barkcloth or tapa, a lightweight fabric produced by beating inner bark into a pliable sheet. The name barkcläde itself is not widely standardized and may appear in regional or artisanal contexts.

Production typically begins with harvesting the inner bark or bast fibers from suitable tree species, such as paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) in many Pacific traditions. The bark is softened and separated into fibers, which are then repeatedly pounded, scraped, or beaten to loosen and flatten them into a cloth-like sheet. The resulting fabric is pressed and dried, and may be bleached, dyed, or decorated with carved stamps, paints, or printed patterns.

Cultural significance varies by region. Traditional barkcloth has played a central role in social and ceremonial life in parts of the Pacific, where patterns, textures, and colors convey status, identity, and commemorative meaning. Beyond Pacific contexts, bark-based textiles have also appeared in various indigenous and regional crafts, often valued for their natural origins and distinctive appearance.

In modern contexts, barkcläde appears in craft, design, and sustainable-fashion circles, where traditional techniques are revived or adapted. Properties typically include light weight, breathability, and renewability, though durability and water resistance can be limited compared with woven fabrics. Production emphasizes environmental considerations and the preservation of artisanal knowledge.