Fabric has been present in human history since ancient times. Clothing, blankets, amulets, belts, headwear, homespun fabrics in interiors. It is not surprising that a large number of signs and superstitions arose around it. Beliefs of different peoples may differ greatly, but they are united by one idea: the conviction that fabric can store energy, protect, or, on the contrary, bring misfortune.
Why textile became an object of omens in different cultures
Fabric directly touches the body. It warms, protects from various external threats, and accompanies a person in joy and sorrow. In many traditions, it was believed that things absorb emotions and remember events from the life of their owner. Therefore, any fabric was perceived not just as a household item, but as a bearer of symbolic meaning.
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In addition, the process of weaving and embroidery was associated with magic. The interlacing of threads resembled the weaving of fate, and patterns were considered a code capable of protecting or attracting luck.
Omens about new and old clothing
In many cultures, there was a rule not to wear new clothes on an important or dangerous day. It was believed that a new item had not yet “got used” to its owner and could not protect them. Meanwhile, familiar, worn clothing was perceived as a personal amulet.
Old clothes were often used in magical rituals. They were not hurriedly thrown away, but burned or buried so that illnesses, fears, or misfortunes would go away together with them.
You must not sew on yourself
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One of the most widespread textile superstitions concerns sewing. In almost all nations there is a belief that you must not sew clothes directly on yourself. Otherwise you may “sew up” luck, intelligence, or even your life path.
To avoid consequences, if the prohibition had to be broken, a person was supposed to bite the thread or make a symbolic ritual gesture.
Patterns and embroidery as amulets
Among Slavs, Celts, peoples of the Caucasus and Central Asia, patterns on fabric had a protective function. Certain symbols were placed on the collar, cuffs, and along the edges of clothing. It was believed that these were exactly the zones through which evil forces could enter human life. Therefore, textiles became a kind of shield.
Embroidered towels, blankets, and children’s shirts served not only as decoration, but also as protection of the family, home, and child.
Towels and omens about the home
Household textiles are also surrounded by superstitions, beliefs, prohibitions, and recommendations. In some countries, it is forbidden for several family members to wipe themselves with the same towel in a row. It was believed that this way one could “pass on” misfortune or a bad mood.
Torn bed linen was associated with discord in the family, while fresh clean fabrics symbolized renewal of the home’s energy.
Scissors, threads, and fate
Thread has been perceived since ancient times as a symbol of the life path. Hence the omens:
- you must not tear a thread with your hands so as not to destroy your fate
- knots on a thread were associated with difficulties and obstacles
- a long, easily stretching thread was considered a sign of long life
At the same time, scissors in the house were associated with conflicts. Therefore, they were kept closed and not left on the table for a long time.
Textile in birth and wedding rituals
Among different peoples, special textiles were always prepared for the birth of a child: swaddling cloths, blankets, little shirts. They were not allowed to be sewn in advance in large quantities so as not to “invite” misfortune. At weddings, fabric played the role of a symbol of new life. Newlyweds were often placed on an embroidered cloth or special rug so that their path would be shared and happy.
Textile omens still exist today
Even today many people do not put scissors on the bed, do not sew on themselves, and treat old scarves or blankets with care. Textile is associated with warmth, physical closeness, and a sense of safety. Therefore, whether to believe in omens or not is up to each person, but it is impossible to deny the emotional and cultural significance of fabrics.
The influence of textiles on our mood is the topic of the previous blog.