Chikankari is a hand embroidery art form that is a blend of tradition and style. Chikankari Chikan dresses is from the cultural city Lucknow, India and is best known for Chikan embroidery.Chikan is a traditional embroidery style from Lucknown, India. Be it a soft cotton kurta, a flowy georgette suit, a bright Chikankari saree, regular care is a must to sustain the fabric’s luster and embroidery. A complete guide on how to care Chikankari dresses and they remain graceful for years to come
1. Gentle Hand Washing is Best
The first and foremost rule of Chikankari garments is never to machine wash them. The fragile embroidery can easily be worn away or become frayed in a washing machine.
(In the first case always prefer hand washing in cold water.)
Wash with a mild detergent or baby shampoo. Only let the dress soak for a few minutes and gently rinse, nothing wring or twisting.
2. Dry in Shade to Preserve Colors
The fabric and embroidery threads may be bleached by direct sunlight.
To dry, simply place the dress flat on a towel and press to remove excess water.
Hang to dry in shade to maintain the colours and softness of threads.
Do not hang anything which is wet in an effort to avoid the dropping off shape.
3. Iron Carefully and Gently
Chikankari embroidery may lie flat, but the fabric underneath needs careful handling.
Always iron the dress inside out, or place a muslin cloth over the embroidery while ironing.
Use a low to medium heat setting to prevent thread damage.
Never directly press hot iron on the embroidery work.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Storage is an important part of the longevity of Chikankari outfits.
To prevent your chikankari garment from harsh scratches when folded or kept in a cupboard, wrap the garment with a small piece of muslin cloth.
Store it in a cotton or muslin cloth bag instead of plastic covers to allow the fabric to breathe.
Includes a small pouch of natural desiccant or neem leaves for added freshness to prevent moisture and bugs.
5. Avoid Perfumes and Bleach
Direct application of perfumes or deodorants can stain the fabric. Also, avoid using bleach or strong chemicals, as they can damage the embroidery and fabric quality.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to care Chikankari dresses not only helps preserve their elegance but also honors the craftsmanship of the artisans who create them. With a little patience and the right techniques, your Chikankari outfits will continue to add beauty and tradition to your wardrobe for many seasons to come
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