Patola sari is a type of double ikat sari that is traditionally woven by hand in the Patan region of Gujarat. The process of making a Patola sari is a highly intricate and time-consuming one, involving many skilled artisans. Patola saris are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and superior quality, which are some of the reasons why they are expensive. These saris are handwoven by highly skilled artisans using a complex process that involves dyeing, spinning, and weaving the silk threads.

The making of a Patola sari can take several months or even years, depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the sari. Each sari is unique and cannot be replicated, which adds to its exclusivity and value.

Additionally, Patola saris are made using pure silk, which is a luxurious and expensive fabric. The silk is sourced from the best quality silkworms, and the dyeing process requires the use of natural dyes, which are also costly. Usually the starting price of a pure silk Patola sari is 50,000 INR and goes up to 3 lakhs.

Here are the basic steps involved in making a Patola sari.

Designing: The first step in making a Patola sari is designing the intricate patterns and motifs that will be woven into the fabric. These designs are drawn on graph paper to create a blueprint for the weavers.

Yarn preparation: Once the designs are finalized, the yarns for the warp and weft are dyed in the desired colors. The yarns are then stretched on a frame and marked with the design, ready for the weaving process.

Warp tying: The process of warp tying is an essential step in making Patola sari. The warp threads are tied and dyed in the specific pattern that will be woven into the sari. This process is called 'bandhani' and requires a lot of skill and precision.

Weaving: The weaving process is the most critical step in making Patola sari. The weavers use a special type of loom to weave the warp and weft threads together, creating the intricate patterns of the sari. The process requires a lot of patience and skill as the weavers have to ensure that the patterns align perfectly.

Finishing: Once the weaving process is complete, the sari is washed to remove any excess dye or impurities. The edges are then trimmed and finished, and the sari is ready to wear.

History of Patola weave

Patola weaving has a long history in India and is believed to have been practiced for over 700 years. The earliest references to patola weaving date back to the 12th century, and the art form was highly valued by Indian royalty and wealthy merchants. The intricate designs and vibrant colors of patola fabrics were a symbol of wealth and status, and the textiles were often used in wedding ceremonies and other important occasions.

The banner image is from designer Ayush Kejriwal, who specializes in making Patan Patola saris.