The Complete Guide to Buying a Handloom Saree Online in India
The handloom saree market in India is vast — and unfortunately, it is also full of sarees that call themselves 'handloom' but are machine-made imitations. If you are shopping for authentic handloom sarees online, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
What Makes a Saree Truly Handloom?
A true handloom saree is woven entirely on a hand-operated loom, without any electric or mechanical power. The weaver controls every thread — warp and weft — manually, which means the weaving is slower, more labour-intensive, and produces subtle irregularities that are the hallmark of authenticity. Look for the Handloom Mark, a certification issued by the Government of India that guarantees a product is genuinely handloom woven.
What to Look for When Buying Online
When buying handloom sarees online, look for: detailed fabric information (fibre content, weave type, region of origin), clear product photography that shows the texture and drape, transparent information about the artisans who made it, and a brand that is willing to answer your questions. At Earthy Blocks, every product listing includes the craft technique, fabric origin, and detailed care instructions.
The Difference Between Handloom and Power Loom
Power loom sarees are woven by machines and are significantly cheaper to produce. They lack the natural texture variation and subtle imperfections that make handloom sarees unique. Power loom imitations are often sold as 'handloom' at a premium — the easiest way to tell the difference is to feel the fabric and look closely at the weave. Handloom sarees have a warmth and irregularity that machines cannot replicate.
Why Earthy Blocks is India's Most Trusted Handloom Saree Brand
At Earthy Blocks, Nashik, we source every saree directly from the artisans who make them — from Kutch block printers, Bihar Munga silk weavers, and Rajasthan Kota Doria craftsmen. We have served over 10,000 women across India with 100% handcrafted sarees and blouses. Our blouse stitching service is done by skilled tailors who specialise in saree blouses — with precision sizing and attention to detail that ready-made blouses cannot match. Every piece we sell is authentic, fairly priced, and made with care for both the customer and the craftsperson.
How to Care for Handloom Sarees
Most handloom sarees should be dry cleaned or gently hand washed in cold water. Avoid machine washing. Store sarees folded in muslin cloth rather than plastic bags — natural fabrics need to breathe. Iron on medium heat with the saree turned inside out to preserve the surface.