Care Tips for Chikankari

Preserve the Beauty of Your Handcrafted Embroidery

Chikankari, a delicate and intricate form of hand-embroidery from Lucknow, India, requires special care to maintain its beauty and craftsmanship. Whether your Chikankari piece is a saree, kurta, or dupatta, proper maintenance ensures the longevity of the fabric and the embroidery. Here are some essential care tips to keep your Chikankari garments looking fresh and exquisite:

1.Gentle Washing

Hand Wash Only: To preserve the fine embroidery, always hand wash Chikankari garments. Machine washing can damage the delicate threads.

Use Cold Water: Wash in cold water to prevent the fabric from shrinking and to maintain the brightness of the embroidery threads.

Mild Detergent: Use a mild, non-abrasive detergent to avoid damage to both the fabric and the delicate threads.

Avoid Scrubbing: Gently rub the fabric to remove stains; avoid scrubbing the embroidery area to prevent fraying.

2. Drying

Air dry: Gently remove excess water from the fabric without wringing or twisting it. Hang it to air dry.

Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade, so it's best to dry your Chikankari fabric in a shaded area.

Reshape while wet: Lay the fabric flat and reshape it to its original dimensions while it's still wet. This helps prevent shrinkage.

3.Ironing
Iron on reverse side: To prevent damage to the embroidery, iron your Chikankari fabric on the reverse side.

Use a low heat setting: High heat can damage the fabric or cause the embroidery threads to melt. Use a low heat setting to prevent this.

Avoid ironing over embroidery: Try to avoid ironing directly over the embroidery, as this can cause damage to the threads or fabric.

4. Dry Cleaning (If Necessary)
If your Chikankari garment is made of delicate fabric (like silk or georgette) or if you're unsure about hand washing, it's best to have it dry cleaned. Always inform your dry cleaner about the embroidery so they can handle it carefully.

5. Storage
Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your Chikankari fabric in humid or extremely hot environments, as this can cause damage or discoloration.

Use acid-free tissue paper: When storing your Chikankari fabric, use acid-free tissue paper to prevent yellowing or damage.

Avoid folding or creasing: Try to avoid folding or creasing your Chikankari fabric, as this can cause permanent damage. If you must fold it, use a soft, padded surface to minimize creasing.

By following these care tips, you'll be able to preserve the beauty of your handcrafted Chikankari embroidery for years to come.