Key Takeaways:
- Embroidery work sarees add an additional style element to traditional sarees with intricate designs and embroidered motifs, making them the latest trend and perfect for a sophisticated charm.
- Embroidery work sarees come in various types such as Zardosi, Kantha, Chikankari, Phulkari, Mirror work, Gota Patti, Aari, Kutch, and Banjara, giving saree lovers a wide variety to choose from and adding a touch of elegance to plain sarees.
Embroidery work sarees are traditional Indian garments with intricate threadwork designs. These sarees enhance any outfit with their beautiful, detailed motifs. They have been a key part of Indian fashion for a long time and remain popular for their elegant appeal. It’s interesting to note that crafting one of these sarees can take weeks or even months, as each design is handcrafted for its sophisticated look.
There are many types of embroidery work sarees, each with its own charm and style. Let’s look at nine different types:
- Zardosi Embroidery: Known for its heavy and elaborate metal embroidery.
- Kantha Embroidery: Features simple, running stitches in beautiful patterns.
- Chikankari Embroidery: Characterized by delicate, white-on-white embroidery.
- Phulkari Embroidery: Recognizable by its vibrant, floral embroidery.
- Mirror Work Embroidery: Incorporates small mirrors for a dazzling effect.
- Gota Patti Embroidery: Uses gold or silver ribbons for intricate designs.
- Aari Embroidery: Involves fine threadwork often with bead and sequin embellishments.
- Kutch Embroidery: Distinctive for its colorful, intricate patterns and mirrorwork.
- Banjara Embroidery: Vibrant and colorful with heavy use of mirrors and beads.
Each type has its unique colors and patterns, making them special in their own way.
1. Zardosi Embroidery: This traditional Indian technique features ornate designs and dates back to the Mughal era, used for royal garments. Here’s how to do it:
– Choose and transfer a design onto the saree fabric.
– Secure the fabric on a wooden frame or embroidery hoop.
– Thread a needle with zari or metallic thread.
– Outline the design using a chain stitch or running stitch.
– Fill in the design with zari thread using satin stitch or couching.
– Add sequins, beads, or pearls with zari thread.
– Trim excess thread and secure the reverse side.
– Steam the saree to set the embroidery and smooth out wrinkles.
Zardosi, meaning “gold thread” in Persian, adds a regal touch to modern fashion.
2. Kantha Embroidery: This craft from West Bengal involves hand-done intricate running stitch on sarees.
– Made with fine needles and colorful threads.
– Often uses silk, cotton, georgette, or chiffon.
– Can be dry cleaned or gently hand washed.
– Suitable for draping in various traditional Indian styles.
3. Chikankari Embroidery: This intricate Lucknow embroidery involves:
– Selecting cotton or georgette sarees.
– Preparing the fabric by washing and ironing.
– Tracing a Chikankari design with a fabric marker.
– Stitching the design using Chikankari stitches.
– Washing gently to remove the marker and dirt.
– Air drying and ironing on reverse.
Store Chikankari sarees in a muslin cloth or soft bags.
4. Phulkari Embroidery: This vibrant Punjab embroidery, meaning “flower work,” is known for floral motifs.
– Skilled artisans create designs on silk, cotton, or georgette.
– Best cared for by dry cleaning.
5. Mirror Work Embroidery: This involves:
– Choosing fabric and design.
– Marking mirror placement.
– Stitching mirrors with matching embroidery thread.
– Adding decorative stitches around mirrors.
– Ironing to smooth out the fabric.
6. Gota Patti Embroidery: Originating in Rajasthan, this uses gold or silver ribbons for applique work.
– Often combined with zardozi or mirror work.
– Popular for bridal and festive wear.
7. Aari Embroidery: Involves:
– Transferring the design onto fabric.
– Stretching the fabric on a frame or hoop.
– Selecting and threading the aari needle with silk or cotton thread.
– Creating stitches like chains or satin stitches.
– Trimming loose threads and ironing upon completion.
– Best on fine fabrics like silk or cotton.
8. Kutch Embroidery: Features colorful patterns with threads, mirrors, beads, and sequins.
– Best dry-cleaned to maintain details.
– Can be worn in various traditional Indian draping styles.
9. Banjara Embroidery: Known for mirror work and bright threads.
– Suitable for dry cleaning or gentle hand washing.
– Best paired with simple accessories to highlight the embroidery.
What Are The Different Fabrics Used In Embroidery Work Sarees?
When it comes to dressing up for a special day, a saree is always a go-to choice for many women. And if you are looking for a whimsical attire that adds a touch of elegance to your look, then embroidery work sarees are the perfect option. With the latest saree embroidery designs available online, you can easily find the perfect saree for any occasion. But what are the different fabrics used in embroidery work sarees? In this section, we’ll explore the top fabrics including silk, cotton, georgette, and chiffon, to help you choose the best saree for your daily wear or special occasions.
1. Silk
Silk is a popular fabric used in embroidery work sarees. Here are some steps to care for silk embroidery work sarees:
- Dry cleaning: It is recommended to dry clean silk sarees to preserve their color and texture.
- Hand washing: If you prefer washing at home, use mild detergent and lukewarm water. Gently swirl the saree and avoid rubbing or twisting.
- Storing properly: Fold the saree neatly and store it in a cotton or muslin cloth to prevent any damage. Avoid hanging silk sarees as they may stretch.
2. Cotton
Cotton is a widely used fabric in the creation of embroidered sarees. It is known for its comfort, breathability, and versatility. Cotton embroidery work sarees are perfect for everyday wear due to their lightweight nature and easy maintenance. They are available in a variety of styles, including block print, threadwork, and mirror work. Additionally, cotton sarees come in an array of colors and patterns, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
To ensure the longevity of cotton embroidery work sarees, it is best to hand wash them gently or have them dry cleaned. Proper storage is also crucial in preventing any damage or wrinkles.
3. Georgette
Georgette is a popular fabric used in embroidery work sarees. To properly care for your georgette sarees, follow these steps:
- Dry clean your georgette saree to maintain its fabric quality.
- If you prefer to hand wash, use a mild detergent and gently wash in cold water.
- Avoid wringing or twisting the saree, instead, squeeze out excess water gently.
- Hang the saree to dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight.
- Store the saree properly by folding it neatly and placing it in a saree bag or a cotton cloth to protect it from dust.
Fun Fact: The fabric was named after the French dressmaker Georgette de la Plante, who introduced it in the early 20th century.
4. Chiffon
Chiffon is a highly sought-after fabric commonly used in saree embroidery. Its lightweight and translucent nature adds a touch of elegance and delicacy to the saree. Chiffon sarees are renowned for their flowy and draping quality, making them a popular choice for special occasions and events. The embroidery work on chiffon sarees can range from intricate threadwork to stunning embellishments such as sequins and beads. The combination of chiffon fabric and embroidery work creates a breathtaking and otherworldly appearance, making chiffon sarees a top choice for those looking to make a fashionable statement.
How To Care For Embroidery Work Sarees?
Embroidery work sarees are a popular choice for special occasions and events. These fancy sarees come in various styles such as pattu sarees, net sarees, and bandhani sarees, and are known for their intricate and delicate embroidery. However, caring for these sarees can be a daunting task. In this section, we will discuss the best practices for caring for embroidery work sarees, including the use of dry cleaning and hand washing techniques. We will also touch upon the importance of storing these sarees properly to maintain their beauty and quality.
1. Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is highly recommended for caring for embroidery work sarees in order to maintain their delicate fabric and intricate embroidery. Follow these steps for dry cleaning:
- Choose a professional dry cleaner with experience in handling delicate fabrics and embroidery.
- Inform the dry cleaner about the saree’s fabric and type of embroidery to ensure proper treatment.
- Inspect the saree for any stains or spots and make sure to point them out to the dry cleaner for targeted cleaning.
- Remove any accessories or detachable embellishments before sending the saree for cleaning.
- Wrap the saree in acid-free tissue paper to protect it during transportation and storage.
- Store the saree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.
2. Hand Washing
Hand washing is the preferred method for cleaning embroidery work sarees as it ensures gentle treatment of delicate fabrics and intricate embroidery. Follow these steps to properly hand wash your saree:
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water.
- Add a mild detergent specifically for delicate fabrics.
- Gently swirl the saree in the soapy water, paying attention to stained or soiled areas.
- Rinse the saree thoroughly with cool water until all soap residue is removed.
- Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the saree.
- Lay the saree flat on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb more water.
- Unroll the saree and reshape it while damp.
- Hang the saree to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Hand washing has been a traditional method of cleaning textiles for centuries. It allows for personalized care and attention, ensuring the preservation of intricate embroidery and delicate fabrics. This gentle method keeps sarees looking beautiful and vibrant for generations to come.
3. Storing Properly
- To properly store your embroidery work sarees, make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
- Avoid folding the sarees for extended periods as this can cause permanent creases. Instead, hang them on padded hangers to maintain their shape.
- For added protection, wrap the sarees in muslin or cotton cloth to shield them from dust and moisture.
- It is also important to ensure proper ventilation in the storage area to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your embroidery work sarees remain in excellent condition and are always ready to be worn for any special occasion.
What Are The Different Styles Of Draping Embroidery Work Sarees?
When it comes to draping an embroidery work saree, there are various styles that can be adapted to showcase its beauty. From the classic traditional Nivi style to the elegant Bengali style, each draping technique adds a unique touch to the saree. In this section, we’ll explore the different styles of draping an embroidery work saree, including the popular Rajrani style, the graceful Bengali style, the vibrant Gujarati style, and the regal Maharashtrian style. So, whether you’re meeting old friends or for a special occasion, you’ll be sure to make a statement with your embroidered saree.
1. Traditional Nivi Style
The traditional Nivi style is a popular way to drape an embroidery work saree. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by tucking the plain end of the saree into your petticoat, making sure it is secure.
- Wrap the saree around your waist once and then bring it to the front.
- Make pleats with the remaining fabric, around 5-7 pleats, and tuck them into your petticoat, slightly to the left of your navel.
- Take the loose end of the saree and bring it over your left shoulder, across your chest.
- Secure the loose end by pleating it neatly and pinning it to your blouse.
- Adjust the length and drape of the saree as desired.
2. Bengali Style
The Bengali style of draping embroidery work sarees is a traditional and elegant way to showcase the beauty of these sarees. Here are the steps to drape a saree in the Bengali style:
- Start by tucking the plain end of the saree into the petticoat at the center.
- Make one complete turn around your waist, ensuring the bottom border is even.
- Take the loose end and drape it over your left shoulder, allowing it to fall behind you.
- Bring the loose end back to the front and pleat it neatly.
- Tuck the pleats into the petticoat at the left side of your waist.
- Take the pallu (loose end over the left shoulder) and drape it neatly over your left arm.
- Add a decorative pin or brooch to secure the pallu in place.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu to create a neat and elegant look.
By following these steps, you can achieve a beautiful Bengali style while wearing an embroidery work saree.
3. Gujarati Style
Gujarati Style is a popular way of draping embroidery work sarees. Here are the steps to achieve this elegant look:
- Begin by tucking the plain end of the saree into the petticoat at the center, making sure it is secure.
- Next, drape the remaining length of the saree around your waist and bring it back to the front.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband on the left side.
- Take the pallu (the loose end) and bring it over your left shoulder, allowing it to fall gracefully at the back.
- Secure the pallu with pins to keep it in place.
- To complete the look, accessorize with traditional jewelry and a bindi.
The Gujarati Style, with its intricate draping technique, adds a touch of elegance to any embroidery work saree, making it the perfect choice for special occasions.
4. Maharashtrian Style
- Begin by tucking the plain end of the saree into the petticoat and wrap it around your waist once.
- Create pleats on the front and tuck them into the petticoat, slightly towards the left side.
- Bring the loose end of the saree from the back to the front, under your right arm.
- Drape the loose end over your left shoulder, ensuring a graceful fall.
- Secure the loose end with a pin on your left shoulder.
- Complete the Maharashtrian style by accessorizing with traditional jewelry such as nath (nose ring) and Kolhapuri sandals.
Fun Fact: The Maharashtrian style of saree draping is renowned for its simplicity and elegance, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
5. Rajrani Style
The Rajrani style of draping an embroidery work saree is a traditional and elegant way to showcase the beauty of the garment. Here are the steps to achieve this style:
- Begin by tucking one end of the saree into the waistband of your petticoat, allowing the rest of the fabric to drape evenly.
- Take the remaining fabric and create pleats, making sure they are of equal size.
- Tuck the pleats into the waistband, slightly to the left side.
- Bring the loose end of the saree over your left shoulder and drape it across your chest.
- Secure the loose end at the back, allowing it to hang gracefully.
To enhance the Rajrani style, consider adding traditional accessories such as statement jewelry and a decorative belt. This draping style exudes a regal charm and is perfect for weddings or festive occasions.
FAQs about Embroidery Work Sarees
What is the difference between embroidery sarees and embellished sarees?
The main difference between embroidery sarees and embellished sarees is the type of design and materials used. Embroidery sarees have hand-embroidered designs on the fabric, while beautiful sarees have more bling and shimmer with the use of sequins, cutdana, and other embellishments.
How many products are there in the embroidery saree collection?
There are more than 100 products in the embroidery sarees collection, including a variety of designs, colors, and fabrics to choose from.
Can I find embroidery sarees in different colors?
Yes, embroidery sarees are available in a wide range of colors, including red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, and more. You can also find multicolored thread embroidery designs for a unique and layered look.
What are the steps to select the latest saree embroidery designs online?
To select the perfect embroidery saree, you should first choose the fabric, such as chiffon, silk, or cotton. Then, select the color of the saree and the type of embroidery, such as heavy, hand, or fancy embroidery. Lastly, consider the occasion for which you will be wearing the saree.
Can I buy embroidered work sarees online?
Yes, you can find a variety of embroidery sarees online, including sarees with different styles, motifs, and embroidery work. Koskii is a reputable online store that offers a wide range of embroidery sarees to choose from.
What are some popular materials used for embroidery sarees?
Some popular materials used for embroidery sarees include chiffon, silk, crepe, net, georgette, cotton, and more. Each material has its unique features and can offer a different look and feel to the saree.