Exclusive Bagru Print Sarees: All You Need to Know!

A Bagru print saree is comes from Bagru, Rajasthan. It is known for its natural dyes and intricate patterns. Saree world is an unending ordeal. Filled with colours, hues and innumerable prints and patterns there is much to explore and experiment. A beautiful print that hails from the vibrant land of Rajasthan. A beautiful blend of tradition and artistry, Bagru is a centuries-old hand-block printing technique. Natural dyes and exquisite hand-block prints make this technique a striking one. If you are planning to get your hand on this exquisite masterpiece, you need to know a few important things. Let’s explore everything about Bagru print sarees!

1. The Origin of Bagru Print Sarees

An age-old technique, the Bagru print has a rich heritage. The Chhipa community of Rajasthan has been practicing this technique for over 300 years. Since the printing technique involves the use of hand-carved wooden blocks and natural dyes, every saree is a unique piece of art. Bagru sarees have a raw, earthy and edgy appeal.

2. The Unique Prints and Patterns of Bagru Sarees

he Bagru print motifs are unique and an eye-grabbing feature. They are exclusive and quite different. The motifs include:

• Floral Designs: Beautiful delicate floral patterns that take inspiration from local flora are a stunning treat to the eyes.
• Geometric Shapes: Symmetrical lines, circles, and squares give a structured and artistic visual appeal.
• Paisleys (Kairi): It’s a timeless Indian motif which is a symbol of fertility and abundance.
• Boota and Booti Patterns: These are very small, repetitive motifs which cover the entire saree.
• Animal and Bird Motifs: Yet again nature inspires the Bagru motifs. You can find motifs of peacocks, elephants, and other animals in a Bagru print saree.

Bagru sarees usually are in earthy colour palettes. Combined with these motifs, the sarees are exclusive and unique. Since, they are handblock printed, no two sarees are the same.

3. The Traditional Printing Process of Bagru Sarees

The Bagru saree printing process is labour intensive and cumbersome. The art has been passed down for generations. Let’s take a closer look at the printing process:

1. Fabric Preparation: The Bagru sarees are made in cotton and silk which is washed many times in order to remove starch and impurities. The washing process aids better absorption of the dyes.
2. Mordanting: Then the fabric is treated with a mixture of harda (a natural mordant) and water. This process helps in the adhesion of natural dyes.
3. Block Carving: The motif to be printed is hand-carved on wooden blocks by skilled artisans. Each block is a unique piece of artistry and specific to a particular motif.
4. Dye Preparation: Natural dyes which are derived from plants, flowers, and minerals in large vats. Some of the most common dyes used are indigo (blue), turmeric (yellow), madder root (red), and pomegranate peels (brown).
5. Printing: After this comes the printing process. The artisans dip wooden blocks into the dye and then carefully stamp it onto the fabric. This process requires great skill and precision.
6. Sun Drying: Next is the process of dying. The printed fabric is left to dry under the sun so that the dyes are set properly.
7. Washing and Finishing: To finish the saree is washed again. This removes excess dye and then the saree is ironed to attain a crisp and polished look.

Even though the process is time-consuming, the end results are worth the effort.

4. Why Natural Dyes Make a Difference

Bagru print sarees use natural dyes made from plants, minerals, and vegetables. Some commonly used dyes include:

• Indigo: It’s a beautiful deep blue dye which is extracted from indigo plants.
• Turmeric: A common Indian kitchen ingredient, it is used as a dye to get bright yellow hues.
• Madder Root: This gives bright red and maroon tones.
• Pomegranate Peels: These work as excellent dyes and create brown and beige tones.
• Iron Acetate: It helps in creating deep black shades on the fabric.

Because of the us of natural dyes, Bagru print sarees are sustainable, organic and eco-friendly with minimal. carbon foot-print However, natural dyes may fade over time. So your sarees need extra love and proper care.

5. Choosing the Right Fabric

Bagru print sarees are available in a variety of materials. From cotton to silks, you can choose from a wide range of fabrics. The most popular ones are:

• Cotton: It’s lightweight, breezy and breathable. Hence, perfect for daily wear.
• Silk: Silks are rich, heavy and regal. You can opt for them for grand occasions.
• Chanderi: A blend of cotton and silk Chanderi Bagru print sarees are quite elegant and beautiful. LIghtweight these can be worn for casual settings as well as traditional events.
• Maheshwari: It’s a slightly glossy fabric with a smooth texture. The subtle sheen makes it suitable for festive occasions.

The choice of your saree fabric is depends on personal preferences and the occasion you are getting ready for. Choose your saree material based on your comfort and lifestyle.

6. Things to Consider Before Buying

Before buying a Bagru print saree, you should consider the following points:

• Authenticity: With the saree market flooded with machine-printed sarees that mimic Bagru designs, getting your hands on a genuine piece is quite challenging. A genuine Bagru print saree is handmade and will have imperfections. Always look for imperfections in design and you’ll most likely refrain from a fake.
• Dye Quality: Since natural dyes fade over time, always ensure you are buying from trusted sellers who use high-quality dyes.
• Fabric Type: Choose a fabric based on comfort or else you might repent your purchase. The fabric is a game changer, it should always be comfortable. never go by tell tales from friends. Your saree has to suit your prefernces.
• Care Instructions: Always hand wash separately in cold water to preserve the colours and also prevent colour getting transferred to other garments.

7. Styling Tips For your Bagru Print Saree

Though your Bagru print sarees are stunning on their own, yet a little style tweak can amplify the beauty even further. Accessorise appropriately to create striking looks. Experiment with drape styles and there you go. Ready to bag compliments?

The Blouse: Let’s talk blouses. Your blouses is your secret weapon in the saree game. Change your blouse design and the entire look changes from traditional to bold and sassy. Some blouse pairing ideas include:

• White or Off-White Blouse: Goes well with most of the Bagru print sarees. It enhances the subtle earthy tones.
• Contrast Bright Colors: Go for a colour that strikes contrast with the saree’s base. It wonderfully works for Bagru sarees.
• Printed Blouses: Print on print actually looks great with these sarees. Pairing with block-printed or Ajrakh blouses gives an edgy artistic touch.
• High-Neck or Boat-Neck Styles: Quite elegant and breaks free from the traditional monotonous look.
• Halter-necks: Sultry and stylish, these are great for a bold avatar.

• The Accessories: Style your cotton Bagru sarees with oxidised silver jewellery. They are a match made in heaven. For silks, you can style them with traditional gold jewellery.

• Belt your saree up: For an edgy and bold look, put on a halter neck blouse and buckle up. High heels on and you’re ready to slay! Looking for comfortable footwer? Slip into your sneakers.

• The Footwear: Go for kolhapuris, for a casual setting. For parties, go for high heels. If you have to work for long hours in a casual setting, sneakers can be your footwear of choice. Comfort first is the key!

8. Where to Buy Authentic Bagru Print Sarees

You can find many online and offline stores that sell Bagru print sarees but to ensure authenticity, it is best to buy from:

• Government-run emporiums.
• Handloom exhibitions and artisan fairs.
• Reputed online stores that support local artisans.

Buying from the right source ensures you get a genuine, handcrafted piece.

9. Caring for Your Bagru Print Saree

Since Bagru print sarees use natural dyes, proper care is essential. Follow these tips to maintain their beauty:

• Since Bagru sarees use natural dyes, they may bleed colours. So, hand wash separately in cold water. Avoid machine washing to prevent fading and shrinking.
• Also, use mild, natural detergents as harsh chemicals can damage the dyes.
• Direct sunlight may cause colours to fade really quickly. Hence, always dry in shade.
• Iron on low heat. Excessive heat may weaken the fabric.

Proper care ensures the saree sees generations without fading and losing it’s shine.

Wrapping Up!

A Bagru print saree is more than just an outfit. It represents history, craftsmanship, and sustainability. An extraordinary masterpiece, Bagru print sarees are a reflection of heritage and true craftsmanship. Cotton for everyday wear or silk for special occasions, these sarees are a perfect amalgamation of tradition and style. It’s a wardrobe staple. Trust us, if you own one, your love will only grow fonder.