Hand Embroidery Process

Every Route Crafts piece is 100% handcrafted. Here is what stands between a length of plain fabric and the garment that reaches you.

1. Choosing the cloth

Chikankari is worked on soft, breathable fabrics, because the embroidery has to sit lightly on the cloth rather than stiffen it. The fabric is selected first — the design follows the cloth, not the other way round.

2. Setting the pattern

The motifs are laid out on the fabric before any thread is used, so the artisan is working to a plan rather than improvising across a garment that has to stay symmetrical.

3. The embroidery

This is the long part, and the part no machine does. Fine thread is drawn through the fabric stitch by stitch to build up each motif. A single garment can occupy an artisan for days. Every delicate stitch, every intricate thread, and every motif tells a story of patience, skill, and love.

4. Washing and finishing

Once the embroidery is complete the garment is washed and finished, so what arrives with you is clean, settled and ready to wear.

5. Checking

Each piece is looked over before it is packed. Small variations between garments are expected and are the mark of hand work — two handmade pieces are never identical.

Made by hand, honoured by design

We use sustainable practices, breathable fabrics, and traditional techniques that honour both the artisan and the earth.

Meet the artisans behind the work, or read about the craft itself. To keep your piece looking its best, see the care guide.