How to make Pochampally sarees?

Pochampally sarees or Pochampally ikats are differently designed using geometrical patterns as opposed to most other silk sarees with floral or temple patterns on them. Named after the district in which these sarees are produced, Pochampally sarees are dyed in the traditional ikat style so fashionably that they can give other ikat producers a run for their money. Reputed for their distinct designs, these sarees gained fame owing to the use of fabric that blends comfort with the splendor of silk fabric.

This exceptional kind of silk sarees employs a more uncommon practice of weaving the fabric into unique and unusual geometric patterns to create unprecedented designs amid color combinations that are no less than a masterpiece. These patterns would be made using the Ikat dyeing method. Precision artwork necessitates patience. It is evident since it takes at least 100 days to design such sarees to perfection.

Dyeing of Pochampally sarees

As opposed to the handlooms and dependence on handicrafts to create these sarees, weavers now use power looms to create contemporary designs and ensure effective production. More produce ensured greater outreach, thus, aiding the local people and the government to revive the dying art of designing Pochampally sarees.

Many people inquire about the Ikat method of dyeing these sarees. ‘Ikat’ also called ‘Ikkat’ literally means ‘tie’. This dyeing method involves tying up silk yarns in bundles and applying a tight wrapping on the yarns in a geometric fashion. These yarns are then dyed. Bundles are created in different forms, while the tight wrapping on these yarns differs from one saree to another, thus, explaining distinct designs. To ensure the formation of desired patterns in permanent and myriad colors, the process is repeated to precision.

Types of Ikkat

The Ikkat style is famous for its distinct design that involves a tie and dye method. The warp and weft pattern dyed with either a single or multiple colors is visible and lends a distinguished and unique look to the saree. The warp yarn could be silk, jute, cotton, or any other fiber. A careful look at the saree reveals the ikkat patterns as the weaving progresses.

Such style looks simple but is time-consuming and involves multiple artisans to create perfect designs. The overall design is a cumulative effort of some of the best craftsmen who use their expertise and experience to produce saree designs and patterns second to none.

The precision of the patterns underscores the difficulty involved, while the extensive use of silk explains its pricing details. The designs on the Pochampally sarees elucidate how the double Ikkat method is used to transfer intricate patterns onto the fiber.

Another significant feature of these sarees is the apparent hazy nature of the geometric design. It is the haziness that highlights the difficulty of lining up dyed yarns to lend it a perfectly finished pattern. The combination of complex designs colored with myriad hues and slight blurriness is a fact that distinguishes Pochampally sarees from other silk sarees.

Fabrics used

Be it any type of Ikat, the color used in the cloth is obtained from natural resources. The sarees are not made of pure silk but are essentially a combination of cotton and silk. As opposed to other silk sarees that are heavy and cannot be draped on all occasions, you can wear a Pochampally saree in your daily life owing to its lightweight, smooth texture and the simplicity of its design. Owing to the light nature of the fabric used, these sarees are comfortable and can be worn even during summers.

Pochampally sarees are all about mesmerizing colors and contrasting designs. If you are looking for something fresh and playful, buy a Pochampally saree today.