Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Kanchipuram

Temple borders, korvai joins and heavy silk — the classic South Indian wedding weave.

Origin

Temple borders, korvai joins and heavy silk — the classic South Indian wedding weave. The craft lives in its town: looms in courtyards, yarn in the market, and a language of motifs passed within families.

Craft history

Like most Indian weaves, Kanchipuram grew from local fibre, court or temple demand, and the patience of households. Sahasrabha works with weavers who still keep that continuity.

How it is made

Yarn is prepared, dyed and warped. The body is woven pick by pick; borders and pallu may be joined, extra-wefted or printed. Finishing — washing, calendaring, inspection — is as considered as the weave itself.