How to Identify Handloom Sarees

1. Look for the Handloom Mark

• Government of India’s "Handloom Mark" ensures authenticity.

• Usually stitched or printed on the saree or tag.

👀 2. Slight Irregularities in Weave

• Handloom sarees often have small imperfections or irregular patterns, as they are woven by hand

🧶 3. Soft Texture and Natural Feel

• Handloom sarees are made with natural fibers like cotton or silk.

• They feel soft, breathable, and light compared to powerloom sarees.

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4. No Reverse Threads

• In handloom sarees, the design is visible on both sides, though the reverse may look slightly dull.

• Powerloom sarees often have thread cuttings and a stiff reverse side.

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5. Smell the Fabric

• Pure silk or cotton handlooms have a natural smell (silk smells like burnt hair when tested with flame).

• Synthetic or powerloom fabrics may smell like plastic.

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6. Check the Borders and Pallu

• Handloom sarees often have intricately woven borders and pallu (not printed).

• Borders are interlocked with the body, not stitched separately.

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7. Ask for GI Tag or Certificate (if possible)

• Sarees like Narayanpet, Kanchipuram, Banarasi, etc. have Geographical Indication (GI) tags.

• Some reputed sellers provide a certificate of authenticity.

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8. Price Difference

• Handloom sarees are usually more expensive due to labor and quality.

• If a “pure handloom silk saree” is too cheap, it’s likely fake.

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9. Zoom into Photos While Buying Online

• If buying from sites like VarshaHandlooms.com, zoom in to check:

  • Uneven threads

  • Natural fiber texture

  • Woven, not printed patterns

10. Buy from Reputed Sellers

• Purchase from trusted handloom weavers or stores like:

  • Varsha Handlooms, Narayanpet

  • Verified websites with transparent return policies