Vietnamese back strap loom.

HOURS of toil and ingenuity are infrequently appreciated when hunting for décor doodackies to dress up home interiors. It is easily assumed monstrous machines, driven by cost-efficient computer programmes produce charming artefacts with minimal effort.

However, to give interior design fanatics an insight into how handcrafted fabrics with integrity are manufactured, Trade Aid is hosting the Intertwined exhibition. The intricate processes used to make quilts, cushion covers and throws of an ethnic flavour are displayed along with descriptions of the cultural background behind each method of manufacture.

The Botany-based retailer is well-known for its fair-trade ethics and more recently, the designs of interior soft furnishings have been improved to meet the demand of New Zealand homeowners.

The typically Asian and Indian designs work best in an eclectic environment, rather than minimalist surrounds. And, while some of the cushion covers may not be entirely practical as far as comfort is concerned, they make dramatic impact with mirrors, shells and sparkling adornments.

Embroidery in progress.

Patchwork quilts, throws and cushion covers, made by fair-trade group Aspiration International, incorporate recycled embroidered saris and outer garments. The patchwork expertise originated in Turkey and spread across Asia, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India with the travels of nomadic tribes.

When the supply of aged textiles was exhausted the artisans innovatively gave new life to cast off clothing. Some throws sound as wonderful as they look with the addition of tinkling sari coins.

A traditional Kantha Mohenjodaro design bedspread has been made by Sasha, a leading non-profit marketing co-operative throughout India. The exhibition includes fabric in embroidery rings at various stages of production, from the first stitches to the final work of art.

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Finished Kantha Mohenjodaro bedspread.

Intense black fabric adorned with coloured stripes is produced by Ta Oi, an ethnic minority from two districts of central Vietnam. The dramatic fabric is made on a back strap loom. The artisan sits on the floor with a warp stretched from a strap around her back to a bamboo rod held out by her feet to create the necessary tension.

The time-consuming process can require three days to weave a metre of super-strong fabric. Originally used for clothing and to adorn communal and holy places, this vibrant fabric is sure to be a favourite with teenagers who like intense surroundings.

Skilled crewelwork is used to make Kashmiri tapestry wall hangings, floor rugs and bedspreads.

A special pointed hook is needed to work the thick, hand woven fabric. Crewel wool is thicker than cotton or silk embroidery threads, which creates a raised, three-dimensional surface.