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Our Printing Process

The saree is not just a garment; it’s a canvas that narrates stories through its intricate prints. At Shailja, the art of saree printing transcends the mere act of design—it’s a dialogue between tradition and innovation, a dance of dyes and fabrics that culminates in the creation of elegance and identity. This blog post invites you into Shailja’s world, to explore the meticulous process that turns a simple piece of fabric into an exquisite piece of art.

The Inspiration

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Every print begins with an idea, a spark of inspiration. At Shailja, this spark is often kindled by the rich tapestry of Indian culture, its myriad of festivals, its diverse flora and fauna, and the stories etched within its history. The designers at Shailja are storytellers who use prints to weave tales of beauty, grace, and power. They draw from the environment, mythology, architecture, and even the rhythm of daily life, crafting designs that resonate with the wearer’s soul.

The Design Process

The journey from concept to creation is meticulous. Designers at Shailja employ both hand-sketching and digital technology to bring their visions to life. Each pattern is a labor of love, refined through numerous iterations until it achieves a balance of aesthetics and wearability. The saree printing designs are not only meant to look good but also to feel good, to flow with the fabric and the movements of the wearer

Choosing The Right Fabric

The choice of fabric is crucial—it’s the foundation upon which the prints will shine. Shailja’s experts select from a range of materials, from the traditional silk and cotton to the more contemporary georgettes and chiffons, each chosen for its texture, drape, and ability to absorb and reflect color. The chosen fabric dictates the type of printing technique that will be used, be it block, screen, or digital printing.

The Printing Techniques

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Shailja’s mastery of saree printing is evident in its vast repertoire of techniques. Block printing, an age-old craft, is revered for its classic appeal and the human touch it requires. Screen printing allows for more intricate and layered designs, offering a balance between handcrafted charm and precision. Digital printing, the newest addition to Shailja’s techniques, opens up a world of unlimited color and pattern possibilities, executed with sharpness and clarity that was once unimaginable.

The Colors of Emotion

Colors play an essential role in printing, carrying significance and emotion. Shailja’s colorists work with a palette that ranges from the subtlest pastels to the most vibrant primaries. Each color is mixed with precision, ensuring consistency and depth. The dyes used are selected for their quality, longevity, and, importantly, their environmental impact, aligning with Shailja’s commitment to sustainability.

Quality Control and Finishing

After the printing process, each saree is subjected to rigorous quality control. It’s here that the prints are inspected for clarity, colorfastness, and any imperfections. The sarees are then finished with treatments that ensure the prints will endure the test of time. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every Shailja-printed saree meets the high standards set by the house and expected by the customers.

The printed sarees of Shailja are more than just attire; they are a celebration of culture and creativity. Behind each print is a process that combines artistic inspiration with technical expertise. From the designers who conceive the patterns to the artisans who bring them to life, each saree is a testament to Shailja’s dedication to the craft of saree printing. As we pull back the curtain on this creative process, we gain not only a deeper appreciation for the art but also for the artists who make it all possible—artists who ensure that every Shailja saree is, indeed, a masterpiece.