The Story of Patola

Double ikat, explained

In double ikat, both warp and weft threads are resist-dyed before weaving. Each thread is tied and dyed in exact sequence so that, on the loom, the pattern appears where the two sets of colour meet. A single saree can take months to complete.

Because the design lives in the dyed threads themselves, a true double ikat Patola reads the same on both sides.

A timeline

1. 12th century

   King Kumarpala of the Solanki dynasty is traditionally associated with bringing 700 Salvi weaving families from Jalna to Patan.

2. Generations of precision

   Salvi artisans refine the exacting double-ikat discipline, tying and dyeing both warp and weft before weaving.

3. 17th century

   Patola travels the spice routes to Southeast Asia as a prized trade textile.

4. 20th century

   A handful of families keep the double ikat tradition alive.

5. 2013

   Patan Patola receives Geographical Indication protection.

Geographical Indication & Silk Mark

Patan Patola is protected by a Geographical Indication. Silk Mark and other certification badges appear only where the individual piece has verified documentation; ask the concierge to review it before purchase.