A New Wave of Shibori Sarees

Tied, Dyed & Timeless: The Modern Journey of Shibori Sarees

Shibori – a word that sounds like a delicate whisper of tradition, is actually an ancient textile resist-dyeing technique that has swept the Indian fashion landscape like a wave. At Kunbi, we are proud to present an exclusive collection of Shibori sarees — from rich Bishnupuri silks to breezy Tussar weaves — that merge heritage with contemporary style.

Let’s take a deep dive into the world of Shibori, its roots, craftsmanship, and why this age-old artform is finding a refreshing new voice in the Indian saree market.

The Origins: From Leheriya to Shibori

The Shibori technique may be globally associated with Japan, but it has a compelling parallel in India — Leheriya, the tie-dye technique of Rajasthan. Leheriya (from leher, meaning "wave") involves diagonal, wave-like dye patterns traditionally created on brightly colored cloth.

Shibori, while aesthetically similar in its undulating patterns, actually originates from Japan. The word comes from shiboru, which means “to wring, squeeze, or press.” This directly points to the act of manipulating fabric to create resist areas before dyeing.

Interestingly, Rabindranath Tagore, the legendary poet and Nobel Laureate, was instrumental in introducing this technique to India. His deep commitment to reviving indigenous crafts led to the adoption of Shibori techniques in parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi.

What Makes Shibori Unique?

Shibori stands out for its soft-edged, fluid patterns that seem to melt into the fabric. Unlike the sharp-edged results of stencil or wax batik, Shibori has an organic, hand-done beauty. Each design is one-of-a-kind and impossible to replicate identically.

The traditional process is slow and meditative — a far cry from digital prints. But therein lies its charm.

Today, this humble resist-dyeing technique is making a striking comeback through elegant Shibori sarees, especially those in Tussar silk, Bishnupuri silk, and cotton blends. At Kunbi, our artisans have reimagined this artform with modern aesthetics while staying rooted in handloom authenticity.

The Shibori Process: Where Art Meets Craft

Let’s unravel the intensive, time-honored process of Shibori step-by-step.

1. Designing the Pattern

Shibori starts with envisioning a design. Traditionally, artisans created linear or abstract motifs. Today, geometry, florals, and contemporary art forms are explored.

• The design is first transferred to paper or created digitally.

• It is then translated into a plastic stencil using a sewing machine (without thread).

• This template has micro-perforations and is laid over unbleached cloth.

• A duster dipped in kerosene and silver solution is rubbed, leaving a faint design outline on the cloth.

• The kerosene evaporates and the silver washes off post-process.

2. Stitching

• Running stitches are sewn along the marked design using a needle and strong thread.

• At both ends of the thread, a small fabric is attached to allow easy pulling.

• The tighter the stitches, the sharper the resist pattern.

3. Tightening

• This is a two-person job. One holds the fabric while the other pulls the threads, compressing the fabric into tight ridges.

• The knotting is crucial to prevent dye from entering the stitched zones.

• This step is the heart of the stitch-resist dyeing technique.

4. Dyeing

• The fabric is pre-soaked in mild soap.

• Then, it is immersed in a dye bath for around 45 minutes.

• In natural dyeing, shades are built gradually. For instance, indigo baths start with 5% concentration and are deepened incrementally.

• For two-tone effects, lighter dye is applied first, dried, then re-tightened and dipped in a darker bath.

Finishing

After dyeing:

• The threads are carefully removed.

• The fabric is rinsed and sun-dried.

• The result is an exquisite pattern of light and dark, crisp and crinkled — the visual signature of true Shibori.

Types of Shibori Sarees at Kunbi

1. Tussar Shibori Saree

Crafted on luxurious Tussar silk, these sarees have an earthy, textured sheen. The soft-edged indigo patterns lend them a tribal-modern vibe. Perfect for festive mornings, cultural evenings, and conscious fashionistas.

Best for: Festive occasions, fusion wear, art shows.

Why choose Tussar Shibori?
Tussar’s natural beige base beautifully absorbs indigo and other vegetable dyes. Plus, its lightweight nature makes it ideal for Indian summers.

2. Shibori Work in Bishnupuri Silk Saree

Bishnupuri silk, known for its supple flow and glossy finish, offers the perfect canvas for Shibori artistry. The colors appear more luminous, and the saree drapes like a dream.

Best for: Weddings, receptions, evening wear.

Signature Feature:
Contrasting pallu and borders in zari or bright hues to highlight the dye patterns.

3. Cotton Shibori Sarees

Simple, breathable and aesthetic. Cotton Shibori sarees are gaining popularity among younger buyers, college-goers and professionals looking for artistic daily wear.

Best for: Office, day outings, casual gatherings.

Why Shibori is Gaining Popularity in India

✅ Sustainability

Shibori is inherently eco-friendly. Natural dyes like indigo, turmeric, and madder are used. Plus, since most work is done by hand, carbon footprints remain minimal.

✅ Individuality

No two sarees are identical. Each piece is handmade and reflects the artisan's unique touch — something mass-produced prints can never match.

✅ Cultural Fusion

Shibori unites Japanese technique with Indian craftsmanship. This blend resonates with a new generation that values both heritage and global aesthetics.

✅ Revival of Rural Livelihoods

Artisans in Delhi, Bhuj, and Rajasthan are witnessing renewed demand, thanks to urban buyers who appreciate slow fashion.

How to Style Shibori Sarees from Kunbi

• Tussar Shibori + Oxidised Jewellery: Boho meets tradition — a winning combo.

• Bishnupuri Silk Shibori + Pearl Accessories: Understated elegance for evening events.

• Cotton Shibori + Tote Bag + Kolhapuris: Comfort-first fashion for office or brunch.

• Layer with Crop Jackets or Blouses: Add contrast with ikkat or Kantha stitched jackets.

The Kunbi Touch: Authentic, Artistic, Accessible

At Kunbi, we work directly with artisans, ensuring each saree reflects both the legacy and livelihood of Indian handcraft.

What makes our Shibori sarees stand out?

• ✔ Visible pinprick marks: The proof of genuine hand-stitched Shibori.

• ✔ Natural dyes and organic cotton/silk.

• ✔ Pastel to rich jewel-tone color palettes.

• ✔ Fusion designs for both modern and ethnic wardrobes.

• ✔ Artisan stories woven into every piece.

FAQs on Shibori Sarees

Q1: Is Shibori the same as Bandhani or Leheriya?

Answer:
No, though all three are tie-dye techniques, they differ in process and origin. Bandhani involves small dots and plucking, Leheriya uses diagonal stripe dyeing, while Shibori uses stitched resist or binding methods, often creating softer, blurry-edged patterns.

Q2: Are all Shibori sarees handmade?

Answer:
Authentic Shibori sarees are handmade using stitched-resist techniques. However, some printed sarees mimic Shibori patterns. Look for pinprick holes when held against the light — a sign of hand-stitched Shibori.

Q3: How should I wash my Shibori saree?

Answer:
Use gentle hand wash in cold water. Avoid direct sunlight when drying. Dry clean is preferable for silk varieties to preserve texture and dye vibrancy.

Q4: Can I wear a Shibori saree to a formal event?

Answer:
Absolutely! Tussar or Bishnupuri Shibori sarees with subtle shimmer or zari borders can be styled with statement jewellery for weddings, receptions or cultural events.

Q5: Where can I buy authentic Shibori sarees in Kolkata?

Answer:
You can explore Kunbi's exclusive online and offline collection of authentic Shibori sarees in Kolkata. We offer doorstep delivery, styling advice, and customization options.

Q6: How is the two-tone Shibori pattern created?

Answer:
The fabric is first dyed in a lighter shade. After drying, it's stitched, tightened and re-dipped in a darker shade. This creates a beautiful interplay of colors where the stitched areas resist the second dye.

Final Thoughts

In a world that’s fast moving towards mass production, Shibori sarees stand as a poetic resistance — a symbol of patience, precision, and preservation. With their dreamy textures, unpredictable patterns, and artisan soul, Shibori sarees are not just a style statement but a story draped in six yards.

At Kunbi, we are proud to celebrate this global-local art through our sarees that you can wear with pride and purpose.

Ready to add waves of elegance to your wardrobe? Discover your perfect Shibori saree at Kunbi today.