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Understanding Our Textiles
Q: Why might my garment look slightly different from the photos?
Many of the textiles we work with are handcrafted using traditional printing and weaving techniques. Small variations in colour, motif placement and pattern alignment are a natural part of the process and make each piece unique.
Q: Are these variations defects?
No. Handmade textiles rarely produce identical results across every inch of fabric. Slight variations are often evidence of the craft itself rather than flaws in the textile.
Q: Why does the placement of the pattern vary between garments?
Many heritage textiles are printed or woven in continuous lengths of fabric. As a result, the exact placement of motifs may differ from one garment to another. This variation is a natural outcome of working with handcrafted textiles.
Q: Why do some prints have visible joins or overlaps?
In hand block printing, artisans stamp carved wooden blocks onto cloth one impression at a time. Depending on the tradition, these joins may remain visible and are often considered part of the character of the fabric.
Q: Why do some patterns have soft or slightly blurred edges?
Certain weaving techniques, such as Ikat, are created by dyeing the yarn before it is woven. The characteristic soft edge is a natural result of the process and one of the ways Ikat can be identified.
Q: How long does it take to create these textiles?
The answer varies by technique. Some fabrics take several days, while others involve dozens of stages carried out over weeks. Complex traditions such as Ajrakh or Ikat can require significant time, patience and skill before the cloth is ready to be used.
Q: Will every garment be exactly the same?
No. While the overall design remains consistent, each garment reflects the unique qualities of the textile from which it is made. No two pieces are perfectly identical.
Q: Why do you name the craft cluster instead of just the print?
Many textile traditions are deeply connected to specific regions, communities and methods of making. Naming the craft cluster helps acknowledge the people, places and knowledge systems behind the fabric.
Q: How should I think about variation in handcrafted textiles?
A machine repeats the same instruction thousands of times. A craftsperson repeats a process thousands of times. The slight differences that result are often the traces of human hands at work and part of what makes handcrafted textiles distinct.
Care & Longevity
Q: How should I care for my garment?
Please follow the care instructions provided on the garment label. Different fabrics and textile techniques may require different methods of care.
Q: Why is dry cleaning recommended?
Dry cleaning is often the safest and most consistent method for preserving the appearance, structure and colour of heritage textiles. It can also help refresh garments between wears while minimizing stress on the fabric.
Q: Can I wash my garment at home?
Please follow the care instructions on the garment label. If dry cleaning is recommended, we advise following those instructions to help preserve the garment’s colour, shape and finish.
Q: Will my garment shrink?
Natural fibres may experience minor dimensional variation over time. Following the recommended care instructions will help minimize shrinkage and maintain the intended fit of the garment.
Q: Why do you recommend drying garments in the shade?
Extended exposure to direct sunlight can affect the appearance of colours over time. Air drying in the shade between wears is a gentle way to help preserve the fabric and colour for longer.
Q: Will the colours change over time?
Like many natural and heritage textiles, colour may soften gradually over time with wear, cleaning and exposure to light. This is a natural characteristic of many handcrafted fabrics.
Q: How should I store my garment?
Store garments in a cool, dry place away from prolonged direct sunlight. For long-term storage, we recommend using a breathable garment bag rather than plastic coverings.
Q: Should I store handcrafted textiles separately?
Where possible, store richly coloured garments with care and avoid prolonged contact with light-coloured textiles during long-term storage. This is particularly helpful for preserving the appearance of natural and traditionally dyed fabrics.
Q: How often should I clean my garment?
Not every garment requires cleaning after each wear. Often, allowing the garment to air out between wears is sufficient. When a deeper refresh is needed, follow the care instructions provided on the label.
Q: Why do heritage textiles require a little extra care?
These fabrics are valued for their craftsmanship, texture and character. Thoughtful care helps preserve those qualities and allows the garment to be enjoyed for years to come.
