Fabric Purchases

Silk floral fabric.  The cost was only $22 a meter.  I will be creating some fabulous gifts for my dear friends. :)

Block stamped fabric - the style is French Provencal.  Substantially less expense in Rajhasthan than Paris!

Traditional stamped table linen and napkins

What a vision!  The eager shopkeeper was thrilled that I allowed him to "dress" me.  We had been out in the sweltering heat all day, and I must admit that I was perspiry and smelly - I felt obligated to make the purchase after getting the fabric all funky.  

This is a traditional ethnic Rajasthani Elephant Wildlife Batik.  It is 100% cotton and so delightfully comfy.

I absolutely love this sparkling and glittery fabric.  It is a cotton and silk blend of material.  I haven't quite decided what will be created with this textile.  

Saree for a traditional Hindu woman.

Another example of French Provencal stamped fabric.

I had to purchase Patiala Salwar (a type of female trousers). Its distinguishing characteristic is folds of cloth stitched together that meet at the bottom. Patiala salwars require double the length of material to get  stitched. If they have lots of pleats they are referred to as Patiala "Shahi" salwar since it was worn by the (royal) people of Patiala city in state of Punjab.  All I know is that they are amazingly cozy and comfortable!

This is a sarri that I purchased for only $25.  I am "modeling" the appropriate fashion in another photo.  I cannot fathom how these subjugated women are able to wear this apparel while completing daily menial tasks.

This fabric is so darling - I couldn't pass it up!

Indian ancient attire, the saree (sari) was highlighted at the time of Indus Valley Civilization, during 2800-1800 BC.  An Indus Valley priest wearing a saree was the first portrayal of the Indian saree.  History shows that it was the Indian ancient Sanskrit language that gave birth to the name of sari or saree. No two sarees are supposed to be alike.  The cost to purchase a silk hand-stitched saree is approximately $90 per meter.