Craft terminology is useful only when it helps you understand what you are buying. Instead of treating words such as Kantha, Aari, Azrakh, Jamdani or applique as interchangeable “ethnic” labels, look at the specific technique listed on the product and how that technique affects the visual character of the garment.
W2B groups products with craft-led details in the Handcrafted Edit. The descriptions below are a shopping framework, not a claim that every product uses every traditional process in exactly the same way.
Kantha
In W2B’s current assortment, Kantha appears as visible stitch-led embroidery and detailed pallu or body work. Compare the Semi Tussar Kantha Saree with the Kantha Jam Saree to see how colour, base fabric and embroidery placement change the final effect.
Aari work
Aari work can create flowing embroidered motifs and detailed surface texture. W2B’s Aari Work Short Kurta is described with all-over Aari work on the front and back plus separate detailing around the neck, sleeves and hem area. When styling Aari work, let the embroidery determine how much additional jewellery you need.
Block print and hand block print
Block print creates a graphic, repeated design language that can work across sarees, suits and co-ords. W2B uses block-print details across Kota Doriya, linen, modal and cotton products. A block print can feel relaxed or festive depending on the fabric, border and colour palette around it.
Azrakh
The Pure Modal Azrakh Block Printed Saree is described as vegetable-dyed Azrakh block print on Pure Modal Silk, with a differently printed blouse design. When a saree has this kind of strong print story, the blouse and accessories can echo one colour rather than trying to match the entire pattern.
Jamdani
Jamdani-led detail can make woven motifs or the pallu the main focus. The Pure Silk Linen Jamdani Saree combines a linen-silk base with a zari Jamdani pallu, tassels and a narrow bronze zari border.
Applique
Applique adds separate fabric shapes or patches as a surface design element. W2B’s Applique Work Saree uses coloured flower patches on a silk-cotton saree with a black running blouse fabric.
How to shop craft-led products online
- Read the exact craft description rather than relying on a generic tag.
- Zoom into product-detail images where available.
- Check whether the work is concentrated on the body, pallu, border, neckline or sleeves.
- Read the blouse or included-piece details.
- Use fabric and colour together with craft to judge the occasion level.
Frequently asked questions
Does “handcrafted” mean the whole product is handmade?
Not necessarily. Always rely on the exact technique and product description provided for the individual item. W2B avoids using one broad label as a substitute for product-specific information.
Which craft is best for festive wear?
There is no single best technique. Embroidery, Kantha, Aari, block print, Jamdani, applique and zari can all work depending on fabric, colour and how much visual impact you want.
Where can I browse W2B craft-led products?
Visit the Handcrafted Edit or explore Festive Sarees for occasion-focused sarees.