India has one of the richest textile cultures in the world. Every region has its own way of weaving, dyeing, printing, or decorating fabric — and most of these techniques are still done by hand.

If you love handmade pieces, or simply enjoy knowing the story behind what you wear, this guide will take you through the most iconic Indian crafts used to make clothes.

Handloom Weaves

Handloom weaving forms the base of India’s textile identity. Each weave has its own texture, yarn, and personality.

Khadi

Handspun and handwoven cotton or silk — breathable, soft, and soulful.
SHOP Khadi Women’s Collection here.

Banarasi

Luxurious silk with gold/silver zari work from Varanasi. Ideal for festive wear.
SHOP Banarasi Collection here.

Kanjivaram

Known for rich colors, bold borders, and durability.
SHOP Kanjivaram Collection here.

Chanderi & Maheshwari

Lightweight silk-cotton blends with subtle sheen — perfect for everyday luxe.
SHOP HERE.

Ikat (Pochampally, Patola, Sambalpuri)

Famous for dyed yarns woven into striking geometric designs.
SHOP Ikat collection here.

Dyeing & Resist-Dyeing – Creating Magic With Color

These crafts rely on tying, folding, or creating resist patterns to form intricate designs.

Bandhani / Bandhej

Thousands of tiny tie-dye dots from Gujarat & Rajasthan.
SHOP Bandhani Women’s Collection here.

Leheriya

Ripple/wave patterns that instantly feel festive.
SHOP HERE.

Dabu

A mud-resist technique that results in soft, natural patterns in indigo and earthy tones. SHOP HERE.

Ajrakh

A mix of resist-dye and block printing, made with natural dyes.
SHOP HERE.

Block Printing & Hand Painting – Art Straight on Fabric

Some Indian textiles are essentially wearable art.

Bagru

Earthy, floral, and modern motifs created with wooden blocks.
SHOP HERE.

Kalamkari (Pen & Block)

Mythological scenes or nature motifs painted or stamped using natural dyes.
SHOP HERE.

Bagh Print

Strong geometric designs in red and black — bold and timeless.
SHOP HERE.

Pattachitra on Fabric

Classic Odisha art now used tastefully on dupattas and blouses.
Check out Pattachitra Art here.

Surface Embellishments – Shine, Texture & Statement Work

These crafts elevate outfits to festive or wedding-ready.

Gota Patti

Golden ribbon appliqué from Rajasthan — lightweight yet glamorous.
SHOP HERE.

Applique (Pipili)

Cutwork stitched onto contrasting fabrics.
SHOP HERE.

Embroidery – India’s Signature Detailing Craft

Embroidery adds character and richness to garments — from minimal to ornate.

Chikankari

Delicate white-on-white hand embroidery from Lucknow.
SHOP HERE.

Phulkari

Colorful thread flowers from Punjab.
SHOP HERE.

Mukaish

A type of metallic traditional Indian hand-embroidery technique that originated in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, where artisans insert tiny pieces of silver or gold wire (called badla) into fabric and twist them to create a subtle, shimmering effect. SHOP HERE.

Kashida

Kashmiri motifs inspired by nature — paisleys, flowers, vines. Check out Kashida work here.

Kutchi, Rabari & Mirror Work

Bold, tribal embroidery with mirrors from Gujarat.

Parsi Gara

Known as “painting with a needle,” this is luxury embroidery at its finest.

Tribal & Regional Textiles – Raw, Bold & Cultural

These weaves and embroideries carry stories from tribal India.

Toda Embroidery

Red and black thread on white fabric from the Toda tribe in the Nilgiris.
SHOP HERE.

Nagaland & Manipur Weaves

Rich colors and strong geometric motifs.

Assam’s Muga Silk

Golden natural silk with subtle threadwork — rare and luxurious.

Eco-Friendly & Contemporary Textiles

With the rise of conscious fashion, these crafts are growing quickly.

Upcycled Patchwork (Kantha, Tribal Mixes)

Hand-stitched or patchwork styles created from leftover fabrics.
Shop Kantha Work Here.

Why These Crafts Matter

Each piece made using these crafts has the warmth of human hands, the patience of artisans, and a story rooted in India’s cultural heritage.
Whether you’re building a fashion brand, a handicraft collection, or simply curating beautiful pieces, these crafts offer endless opportunities to connect products with culture.