katteen

Katteen is a fictional textile tradition described in worldbuilding materials and speculative fiction set in the archipelago of Katria. It denotes a specific weave pattern and associated craftsmanship that produces a textured, durable fabric. The term derives from the Katrian language, where it is linked to binding or covering.

Technique and materials: Katteen weaving uses hand-spun cotton or linen, natural plant-based dyes, and a backstrap or small frame loom. The pattern is characterized by a raised, interlaced motif created by a supplementary weft that binds warp threads into a three‑dimensional surface. Typical Katteen textiles display geometric motifs, often in two contrasting colors, with a dense, sturdy handle suitable for garments, bags, and utilitarian uses such as sails.

History and usage: In the fictional lore of Katria, katteen appeared among early coastal settlements and was traditionally produced by artisans who passed designs through generations. It served practical purposes as well as ceremonial roles during harvests and initiation rites. Following a period of decline with the advent of industrial fabrics, contemporary artisans have revived katteen, emphasizing traditional motifs, sustainability, and the quality of hand-spun fibers.

Cultural significance and modern reception: The patterns encode clan affiliation and status within the imagined culture, and weaving workshops function as community centers. In modern fictional media and role-playing settings, katteen is used to evoke a sense of place and craft heritage, and it appears in decorative arts and fashion within the world of Katria.

See also: Weaving, Textile arts, Backstrap loom, Ethnographic craft.