Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you wanted to know about Pochampally Ikat silk sarees, our weaving process, shipping, returns, authenticity, and saree care. Can't find your question? Reach out — we typically reply within a few hours.
About Pochampally Ikat
What is Pochampally Ikat?
Pochampally Ikat is a traditional resist-dyeing technique from Bhoodan Pochampally in Telangana, India. Individual yarns are tie-dyed in a precise pattern before weaving, so the design is dyed into the threads themselves rather than printed onto finished cloth. Pochampally was the first Indian textile to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Ikat, and the cluster is recognised by UNESCO as part of India's intangible cultural heritage.
What is the difference between Single Ikat and Double Ikat?
Single Ikat dyes the pattern into only the warp threads or only the weft threads, then weaves them with plain threads of the other direction.
Double Ikat dyes both warp and weft yarns in matching resist patterns, so when woven together they align to produce identical motifs on both sides of the fabric. Double Ikat is the rarest and most labour-intensive form — a single saree can take 30 to 60 days to weave.
How can I tell if a Pochampally Ikat saree is genuine handloom?
Look for these signs:
- Slightly blurred or feathered pattern edges — the signature of yarn-dyed resist work.
- Small irregularities in motif alignment (perfection is the sign of a print, not a weave).
- The Silk Mark and Handloom Mark labels.
- Feel test: pure handloom mulberry silk has a soft, dry rustle and warms slightly when held.
Power-loom or printed imitations show pin-sharp edges, perfect symmetry, and a flatter, slicker hand. Every Ikkatthe Silks saree is Silk Mark certified and woven on traditional handlooms in Pochampally.
Where are Ikkatthe Silks sarees made?
Every Ikkatthe Silks saree is woven in Bhoodan Pochampally, Telangana, India, by master handloom weavers. Pochampally is the original home of Indian Ikat and was awarded the country's first textile Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Ikat.
Sizing & specifications
What is the saree length and is a blouse piece included?
Our sarees are typically 5.5 metres in length and come with a matching 0.9 metre (90 cm) blouse piece woven from the same cloth. Exact dimensions are noted on each individual product page.
How should I care for a Pochampally Ikat silk saree?
Dry-clean only for the first wash. After that:
- Gentle hand wash in cold water with a mild silk-safe detergent.
- Do not wring or twist — press water out gently.
- Dry in shade, never in direct sunlight.
- Iron on the lowest silk setting, through a thin cotton cloth.
Store rolled (not folded along the same creases) in a cool dry place, ideally wrapped in muslin. Refold the saree along a different line every few months to prevent permanent crease damage.
Shipping, payment & returns
Do you offer global shipping?
Free delivery within Telangana state. For the rest of India, shipping is complimentary on premium orders (check the current free shipping threshold at checkout); flat-rate shipping applies on smaller orders. Orders are dispatched within 1 to 3 business days with 5 to 7 day delivery. International shipping is available on request — contact us before ordering.
Do you offer Cash on Delivery?
No. Ikkatthe Silks is prepaid only. We accept UPI, all major credit and debit cards, net banking, and EMI options at checkout.
What is your return and exchange policy?
Because each saree is a unique handcrafted master weave, all sales are final — we do not accept returns or exchanges. If you receive a damaged or defective product, we will issue a replacement; contact us at ikkathesilks@gmail.com with package opening photos or video within 48 hours of delivery.
Buying & service
Are the customer reviews on your site authentic?
Yes. We display verified reviews from real customers. Product ratings and stars appear in search results, and reviews are verified through Google Merchant Center where applicable.
Can I book a private viewing or consultation?
Yes. You can request a private video-call consultation with our design experts. Scroll to the Private Viewing section on the homepage to book a Calendly appointment, or message us via WhatsApp using the floating button.
Do you sell wholesale or take bulk orders?
For wholesale, bridal-trousseau, or bulk corporate gifting orders, please email ikkathesilks@gmail.com with your requirements. Custom motif weaving can be arranged on minimum order quantities with a 30 to 60 day lead time depending on design complexity.
Still have questions?
Email us at ikkathesilks@gmail.com or message us on WhatsApp using the floating button.