I have always been a saree lover from my childhood years. Yes, it sounds strange, but I’ve always been attracted to my mother’s wardrobe and her vibrant sarees. I loved putting them on for Saraswati Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Durga Puja- you name it! This started since I was in my teens and has continued since. In fact, around the time I was in class X, I began to realize that sarees are like an unlimited ocean. There are literally so many types, styles, patterns- it’s endless!
My mother’s passion for the best handloom sarees also transformed my interests in many ways. I started seeing a growing fondness for these delightful handlooms and wanted to learn how to buy sarees directly from weavers. This was because I started reading up on the sheer craftsmanship and artistic skill that goes into the making of each and every saree. This led me down a fascinating path as I started exploring where weavers are based, how they craft these majestic handlooms, and how they are sold. Now that I’m all grown up and financially independent, I can proudly say that I only have one indulgence- buying handloom sarees online. Here’s taking you all throughout my journey and what I’ve learnt over the years.
How to Buy Sarees Directly from Weavers
Buying handloom sarees directly from the weavers is possible online. This makes more sense if you cannot travel all the way to purchase handloom silk sarees in Kanchipuram or other places.
I started doing my research on the weaver to wardrobe concept and it did unlock some fascinating insights. So, here’s what I found:
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I found out that this concept talks about the whole journey of the handloom saree, right from the loom of the weaver to the wardrobe of the customer.
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There is a direct connection between the skills of the artisans and the end product, building a conscious choice that preserves these traditional arts and crafts, promoting sustainable fashion, and backing livelihoods.
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I also discovered how this concept is all about putting the artisan at the forefront (richly deserved), offering recognition for the hard work, creativity, and generations of passed-down knowledge that they represent.
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Handloom sarees are manifestations of cultural heritage and I always do my bit to buy them to keep the tradition alive.
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I also like the fact that several sarees are sustainable in terms of their production process. They require minimal electricity needs and use natural fibers, making them eco-friendly choices over textiles that are mass-produced.
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So, I am fond of the fact that these saree purchases will support the artisans and their communities, offering them better wages in turn.
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Every saree is a piece of art, bearing a signature character and imperfections that signify the special human touch to the same.
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The weaver starts by choosing the threads, taking inspiration from tradition or Nature and then prepares the loom.
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The threads are impeccably woven on the loom and it may take up to several weeks due to the complex nature of the design.
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Once they go off the loom, the saree undergoes processing with tasks like tassel addition, trimming loose threads, ironing, and washing.
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The finished saree will then go to the online store from the weaving cluster for the end-consumer to buy.
Buy Handloom Sarees Online & Support the Ancient Art of Handlooms
Be it handloom silk sarees or other varieties, you will find them all online. This is a conscious decision where you make a buying decision that is good for the environment, artisan communities, and the country’s cultural heritage. I like the fact that every handloom is a one-of-a-kind garment with artisanal origins and it occupies pride of place in my wardrobe. I am happy that I can do my little bit to empower these artisan communities with my purchases.
Of course, where you buy from matters a lot. You should only choose an online store (like I did) which sources products directly from these skilled artisans. I came across Tamal Boutique and have been buying from them ever since. I got addicted to their fabulous collections and they do a lot to preserve these ancient weaving techniques and craftsmanship as well. This resonated with me and I am a loyal patron of their brand. I strongly recommend it to anyone looking for the finest handloom sarees. Buying them online changed my life since I got instant access without having to filter out authentic and fake products (as I used to do earlier).