An introduction to the creation process, exquisite fabrics used and the types of Chanderi sarees produced in the looms of Chanderi

Chanderi sarees, named after the charming town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, hold a
special place in the world of Indian textiles — and for good reason. Known for their light,
airy feel, these sarees drape like a soft whisper, making them perfect for both everyday
elegance and festive occasions. What sets them apart is their gentle sheen that lends a royal
charm without ever feeling too loud. The fine weave gives the fabric a slightly sheer,
gossamer-like quality, adding to its graceful, ethereal appeal. Available in pure silk, cotton,
or a blend of both, Chanderi sarees offer something for every fabric preference and budget.
They’re often adorned with delicate zari work and traditional motifs like mogra flowers,
peacocks, diyas, and graceful geometric patterns — with intricate zari borders adding a
touch of timeless grandeur. Now that we’ve explored what makes these sarees so beloved,
let’s take a closer look at the beautiful, intricate process behind their creation.
The Making of a Chanderi Saree
The Chanderi weaving process is both intricate and time-honoured, requiring immense
skill, patience, and precision. The fabric is woven by hand on traditional looms, where the
den (or warp) — a series of long threads — is set up, and the bana (or weft) is woven
through it. Earlier, weaving a saree required two artisans to work together. But with the
introduction of the fly shuttle loom, a single weaver can now create these sarees.
Let’s take a look at the process step by step:
● Yarn Processing: The journey starts with preparing fine cotton or silk yarns.
● Warping: These yarns are then arranged carefully on the loom to form the saree’s
base.
● Weaving: Expert weavers use handlooms or power looms to create the fabric, often
weaving zari threads into beautiful patterns.
● Motif Creation: Traditional motifs are added using an extra weft technique, where
additional threads are skillfully woven into the design.
● Finishing: Finally, the saree undergoes a finishing process to enhance its softness
and gentle shine.

Today, Chanderi has around 3,600 looms, with women actively participating in the weaving
process. Much like many other traditional Indian crafts, the art of Chanderi weaving
techniques is a community-driven effort. It’s more than just making fabric — it’s about
preserving a centuries-old tradition and keeping heritage alive through every thread.
Types of Fabrics Used in Chanderi Sarees
What makes Chanderi sarees truly special is the thoughtful selection of fabrics. Unlike
other sarees that stick to a single fabric type, Chanderi artisans blend different materials to
achieve a perfect balance of texture, beauty, and comfort. Here’s a look at the main fabrics
used:
● Lightweight Cotton: Known for its softness and durability, this cotton is perfect for
India’s warmer climates. Chanderi cotton sarees are breathable, easy to wear, and
often more affordable, making them ideal for daily and office wear.
● Fine Silk: The silk used in Chanderi sarees is lightweight and fine, giving the saree a
graceful drape and a soft, glossy finish. It beautifully showcases traditional motifs
and adds a rich, luxurious touch, making Pure silk Chanderi sarees perfect for
special occasions.
● Silk-Cotton Blends: A much-loved option, these blends offer the light sheen of silk
with the comfort of cotton. They’re versatile and suitable for both casual gatherings
and formal events, offering elegance without the heaviness of pure silk.
Popular Types of Chanderi Sarees
● Pure Cotton Chanderi Saree: Elegant and breezy, the Chanderi cotton sarees are
ideal for summer and everyday elegance. Lighter and slightly more transparent
than typical cotton, these sarees come in a variety of simple yet graceful motifs and
colours.
● Pure Silk Chanderi Saree: These luxurious Chanderi silk sarees are made entirely of
fine silk and known for their beautiful texture and natural sheen. Often adorned
with zari work, they are a favourite for weddings, festivities, and special occasions.
● Cotton-Silk Chanderi Saree: Combining the best of both worlds, Chanderi silk-
cotton sarees offer the shimmer of silk with the breathability of cotton. They’re

stylish, comfortable, and perfect for a range of occasions, from festive gatherings to
work functions.
● Tissue Chanderi Silk Saree: Known for their delicate sheen and airy texture, these
sarees are a wonderful pick for those who wish to stand out with understated
elegance. Chanderi tissue sarees have a unique luster and graceful appeal that makes
them ideal for festive wear.
At Sutrakari, we take immense pride in celebrating the timeless beauty of Chanderi sarees.
Our thoughtfully curated collection brings together the finest weaves of this heritage art
form, offering you the perfect blend of tradition, luxury, and comfort. Whether it’s for a
wedding, a festival, or simply to elevate your everyday style, a Chanderi saree from
Sutrakari is a choice you’ll always treasure.