If you are new to the world of sarees, there’s a high chance of you not knowing the differences between a handloom and a powerloom saree. Both of these terms refer to distinct weaving methods that give the sarees their distinct features and characteristics.
While both types of sarees exude elegance and sophistication, understanding the distinction is essential to making an informed choice. This article deals with the characteristics of the two weaving methods that will help you understand the nuances and intricacies of Bengal handloom cotton sarees vs powerloom cotton sarees.
Handloom Sarees- A Detailed Overview:
Handloom sarees, as the name suggests, is one of the most traditional weaving techniques, where skilled artisans use hand-operated looms to weave a saree. This particular weaving technique requires colossal skills and patience, and very naturally, is a highly labour-intensive procedure.
Let’s dig deep into the process for a better understanding.
So, the process starts with stretching the warp threads. The weaver, using his meticulous skills, skillfully interlaces the weft threads through the warp by using a shuttle. This results in the creation of unique and intricate patterns through thread manipulation.
Such a hands-on approach allows for endless possibilities of designs, which results in the creation of innovative and complex motifs, that serve as the hallmark of handloom sarees and cannot be easily replicated by machines.
Also Read: How to Look Slimmer and Taller in Saree
Characteristics of Handloom Sarees:
Now, let’s look at the many characteristic features of this weaving method, that make people inclined to buy handloom cotton sarees online-
One-of-a-kind designs:
As mentioned above, handloom cotton sarees are the products of an artisan’s patience and skill. This manual weaving process results in one-of-a-kind designs for each of the sarees being made.
Unique and innovative patterns:
Since the whole procedure is carried out manually, handloom sarees reflect unique and innovative patterns, that can be very difficult to imitate by machines.
Irregularities and imperfections:
The manual procedure of making the sarees calls for slight irregularities and imperfections in the end product. This is considered the hallmark of an authentic handloom saree, which cannot be found in machines.
Powerloom Sarees- A Detailed Overview
Powerloom weaving, as goes by the name, is a modern weaving method, where mechanised looms are used to produce sarees. Since the whole process depends upon electricity and technology, it effectively speeds up the manufacturing process. This allows for mass production and also makes the whole manufacturing process much more cost-effective than a handloom weaving method.
Let’s have a closer look at the process.
So, the setup of a powerloom process remains the same as that of a handloom weaving process. The only difference is that the weaving is done by machines instead of a person. The weaver here only has the responsibility of monitoring the powerloom machine and ensuring that it operates smoothly.
Characteristics of Powerloom Sarees
Following is some of the characteristic features of powerloom sarees, that differentiate them from hand-block printed cotton sarees-
Rapid and Bulk Manufacturing Process:
Since the weaving is done by machines, the powerloom process results in a much faster production than the handloom method. Added to that, it also enables for bulk outputs which isn’t possible in handloom methods.
Read Also: Top Ten Different Types of Indian Sarees in India
Consistent Designs:
The mechanised process results in consistent and uniform designs across all the sarees that are manufactured. So, there is no room for irregularities and imperfections, and except for colour variations, each of the sarees might seem similar due to the same design and patterns.
Cost-effective Production Process:
Powerlooms take much less time and labour to manufacture a saree when compared to handlooms. This makes the manufacturing process much more cost-effective, thereby making the final products more affordable than a sustainable and exquisite hand-block print saree.
What Are the Basic Differences?
Now, let’s look at the two key factors that distinguish handloom sarees from powerloom sarees-
Design and Pattern:
One of the primary distinguishing factors between a handloom and a powerloom saree is their design language and patterns. While handloom sarees exude unique designs and complex patterns, powerloom sarees reflect uniform designs.
Cost:
The labor-intensive process of a handloom saree makes it quite expensive a pick, while powerloom sarees come at a much affordable price.
Finishing:
Powerloom sarees would have flawless finishing touches with zero irregularities. Whereas a handloom saree would have irregularities and imperfections that adds to the charm of its authenticity!
To Conclude:
It’s very important to understand the nuances of handloom and powerloom sarees, especially when you’ve decided to buy one from an online saree boutique. This will help you judge the authenticity and will help you get the genuine product for the correct price.
