Think of how it feels to be enveloped by a well-made fine piece of clothing such as a shawl or saree and know the threads that were used in making the dress were meticulously picked and arranged.
These are not mere fabrics, but masterpieces that are historic to own and give out a deep meaning to a people. Whether the piece is a traditional handed down from generation to generation or a piece bought from a talented artist, one needs to know how to clean it properly.
They stay beautiful and cherished for years and this is made possible by promoting the right measures of care.
Are you eager to know a few of the quick and easy ways to keep your shawls and sarees in perfect shape? These tips range from cleaning and storage of the treasures, how to handle them, to how to go about repairing them.
At the end of reading this blog, everything you will require to maintain the beauty and the history of your handcrafted textiles will be provided. Now let us discover how to take proper care of your shawls and sarees, the fashion accessories you adore.
Grooming to Know Your Handmade Shawls and Sarees
Original Asian shawls and sarees may be made from silk or cotton, wool or their mixes, and so on. Every material has its tendency. Do you have one specific material that you would rather work with?
Techniques that went into the production of these items include handloom weaving, fine embroidery, and block printing among others. Knowing the material and the construction of the dress enables one to protect it in the right manner.
Table and other surfaces on which your shawls and sarees are placed must also be clean and you must avoid touching them with dirty hands. Have you ever felt the unpleasant experience of a shawl getting caught on something sharp?
Liquids should also not be spilled on the fabric as small objects at the bottom of the cups can scratch the surface of the fabric. As for preserving these valuable things, it is preferable to wrap them in a clean piece of cotton or muslin cloth.
Keep them in a place that is relatively cool and away from light and moisture. This helps in preventing them from fading and from damage by either mold or pests.
Shawls and Sarees: Cleaning Tips
Handcrafted textiles need special care for cleaning. Dry cleaning works best for silk and delicate fabrics. Cold water and mild soap suit hand washing. Cotton and wool also handle hand washing with gentle soap.
Hand Washing Steps:
- Cold water plus mild soap makes a cleaning mix.
- Dunk the fabric softly, no hard scrubbing.
- Cold water rinses it clean.
- Towels press out water - no twisting!
- Dry flat in the shade, the sun stays away.
Ever had a stubborn stain on your fancy wrap? Spot cleaning needs a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Pat the spot, no rubbing! Always test a hidden spot first.
Ironing and Keeping the Shape of Saree and Shawls
Fabrics demand unique ironing approaches. Silk calls for low heat with a protective cloth barrier. Cotton tolerates medium to high heat plus steam. Wool needs low heat and a cloth shield to avoid burns.
Shawls and sarees stay pristine when you fold them or hang them on cushy hangers. Rolling works too - no creases! What's your go-to? Old-school folding or the roll-up method?
Repair and Maintenance of Shawls and Sarees
You can fix minor snags at home. Got a tiny tear? Grab a needle and thread. Loose threads? Snip them off. Frayed edges? A quick hem does wonders. But for the big stuff? Better call in the pros.
Seasons affect how you care for your handmade fabrics. Winter calls for moisture and moth protection - pop some desiccants and moth repellents in your storage spots. Summer's heat and sun can wreak havoc so keep them cool and shaded. When you stash stuff away, switch up where you put it.
This stops permanent creases and keeps things from sitting in the same conditions all the time. What's the weather like where you live? How do you store your fabrics as seasons change?
Travel Tips for Handcrafted Textiles
Packing for a trip? Roll up those shawls and sarees instead of folding them - it'll cut down on wrinkles. Grab some garment bags and covers to shield your precious threads from grime and damage. Once you've made it to your destination, let them breathe a bit. If they need it, give them a gentle press to smooth things out.
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining your handcrafted pure shawls and sarees are the most toil process that needs to be performed. If you stick to these simple guidelines, you can save them for a long time and share their beauty and historical value with other generations. These textiles are as much more than the mere material covering one’s body, as a story of talent and tradition. Take care of them as it is needed, and they shall always bring joy and elegance to your life. What are your items of choice, and how do you maintain them?
Checkout exquisite shawls and pure silk sarees to add to your collection, and Discover a wide range of beautifully handcrafted pieces that embody tradition and artistry, each telling its own unique story.
