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Our
pure silk saree has been popular in Kanchipuram-
for its sheer variety of designs, weaving
and quality. This is largely due to the
fact that Kanchipuram has the unique distinction
of producing different varieties of silk
saree.
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There
are four main varieties of pure silk saree
produced by a distinct variety of silkworm
feeding on a specific host plant. Pure Silk
saree is a protien fibre, produced by the
silkworm for spinning around its cocoon.
This fibre (filament) is unwound to obtain
silk. Yarn is produced by twisting the fibre,
which is then dyed, warped and finally woven
to produce fabric. |
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Pure
Silk saree weavers in Kanchipuram have contributed
to the development and fame of Indian silksaree.
Across the length and breadth of the country,
generations of weavers continue to create
magic giving their creations a distinct
touch - through the use of colours and designs.
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The
glamour of the Kanchipuram pure silk saree
lies in its colour contrasts. Pyramidical
temple borders, checks, stripes and floral
"buttas" are traditional designs
you will find in a Kanchipuram saree. In
a genuine Kanchipuram saree, the border,
body and pallav are woven separately and
then interlocked together. The joint is
woven so strongly that even if the saree
tears, the pallav (or border) will not detach.
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Whether
you're buying a saree, or fabric, here are
some tips on what to look for when buying
silk saree. |
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When
you consider the fact that it takes three
weavers approximately 7 to 10 days to weave
one saree (46" X 168"), it is
not surprising that silk saree is expensive.
Watch out for "throw away" priced
silk - it's unlikely to be the real thing.
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Check
the weight - the heavier the pure silk saree,
the longer it will last. |
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If
there is zari work, ask if the zari is pure.
Imitation zari will turn black in a couple
of years. Incidentaly, "pure gold"
zari is a misnomer - it is not gold thread
but has at its core a silk thread over which
silver wire is twisted and then dipped in
gold. |
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The
best way of checking for purity of silk
saree is to take a few threads and burn
them. Pure silk will coagulate and leave
a black powdery residue - not to be confused
with ash. You will also find a faintly unpleasant
odour. |
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Of-course,
your best bet always, will be to buy pure
silk saree from a reliable and established
outlet. |
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Contrary
to popular belief, good pure silk saree
is not difficult to maintain. Caring for
pure silk saree is simple - and if done
properly, will last for years! Here's how
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The
best way of washing pure silk saree is the
tried and tested traditional way. Just squeeze
a few drops of lime in cold water. Dip the
silk and rub gently, remove, wring lightly
and dry away from direct sunlight.
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If
using soap, make sure it's mild. Use cold
water and do not soak silk in soap water.
Dip, rub gently, rinse and dry in the shade.
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Avoid
the use of chemicals - these may damage
your silk, and end up reducing its life
considerable. |
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