Pink - Srikalahasti Handpainted Natural Dyed Bangalore Silk Zari Border Pen Kalamkari Saree 05

Our sarees are typically 5.5 metres long with a 0.8-metre blouse piece. Some come at 6.3 metres without a separate blouse piece. Check the product page for exact measurements.

Most of our sarees include an unstitched blouse piece. The product page clearly mentions if one is included. If it says 'without blouse,' only the saree is shipped.

We carry both everyday and occasion sarees. Lighter fabrics work well daily. Heavier weaves or embroidered ones suit weddings and festivals. The product description notes the best fit.

Fold it along the length and wrap in a soft muslin cloth. Store flat in a dry cupboard. Refold every few months to avoid crease marks on the fabric.

Fall and pico (stitched border) are not done unless the listing specifically says so. Most sarees ship unstitched. Many local tailors offer fall and pico service at a nominal cost.

Srikalahasti Kalamkari is a hand-drawn textile art from Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh. Artists use a bamboo pen (kalam) dipped in natural dyes to draw mythological scenes directly on fabric. No blocks are used.

The artist holds a pointed bamboo kalam wrapped with wool (to hold dye) and draws freehand on fabric. Natural dyes from indigo, pomegranate, and iron are used. The fabric goes through multiple wash and mordant steps between colors.

Look for slight irregularities in the pattern. Block prints are never perfectly symmetrical. The reverse side shows faint ink marks. These small imperfections confirm it's hand-stamped, not machine-made.

Each impression is placed by hand. Block pressure, ink amount, and fabric texture create natural variations. Two pieces from the same batch will look similar but never identical.

First wash in cold water with a pinch of salt to set the dye. Always hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle. Dry in shade. Direct sun can shift natural dye colors over time.

Art silk mimics real silk's sheen at a fraction of the cost. It feels smooth and glossy but slightly less cool than natural silk. The fabric holds bright colours especially well.

Dry clean is safest for Art Silk. If hand washing, use cold water and a mild silk-specific detergent. Never wring. Roll in a towel to absorb moisture, then dry flat in shade.

Art Silk works across seasons. It feels cool in summer and retains warmth in winter. The natural temperature regulation of silk makes it comfortable year-round in Indian climates.

With proper care, Art Silk products last for years. The fibre is naturally strong. Avoid rough handling, direct sun, and chemical detergents. Gentle care keeps it looking fresh long-term.

Silk production is labour-intensive. from rearing silkworms to reeling the thread. Art Silk involves additional regional techniques that add time and skill. The price reflects the material and the maker's effort.