This reversible quilt from Ratan boasts handblocked floral patterns.
The latest releases feature designs and motifs that showcase the country's indigenous tradition.
India suppliers of quilts and duvets are highlighting local heritage and craftsmanship to boost visual appeal.
Prints, for instance, are applied using traditional techniques.
Ikat printing is among the popular design-placement methods. In this process, bundles of warp or weft thread are tied to form precise patterns and then dyed. The position of the binding may be changed and the fibers dyed again with different colors to create multihued designs.
A number of makers also employ Ajrakh printing. The technique, which originated in the western state of Gujarat, utilizes printing blocks with intricate handcarved patterns. Natural dyes are often used to produce colorful motifs.
Stitching utilizes ethic methods as well. Kantha styles that are manually stitched using thread and old sari patches are drawing increased attention. Patterns are embroidered and come in bright colors.
Most quilts and duvets from India have botanical, animal and geometric designs. Striped models are available as well. Apart from native techniques, patterns can be placed via silk-screening, digital printing and reactive dyeing. Suppliers also use patchwork, which combines different hues and fabrics
Mystique International Pvt. Ltd and Ratan Texprocess (P) Ltd offer reversible pieces. Releases from the latter come with different motifs on each side. Select models from the Malani Impex Inc., meanwhile, have a burn-out effect. Designs are block-printed or silk-screened using vegetable dyes.
Swayam boasts its own printing equipment, allowing the company to accommodate custom designs. The supplier's collection includes pieces with floral, tribal, ethnic, and a fusion of vintage and contemporary motifs.
Releases in solid colors are common. Many companies adopt bright shades of orange, turquoise, green, red, pink and yellow. Pieces in neutral hues such as ivory, beige and light brown are also offered.
Cotton remains the fabric of choice because it is breathable, moisture-absorbent and skin-friendly. Poplin, combed, voile, muslin, spun, cambric, velvet, twill, jacquard and satin are the common weaves. A number of manufacturers also employ organic cotton for its distinct smoothness and drape. Polyester, and silk brocade and organza are utilized as well. Functional textiles are rarely used, although a few large enterprises offer pieces that are treated to resist dust, pilling, foul odor and shrinkage, and improve hypoallergenic properties.
Fabrics are sourced from the cities of Jaipur and Jodhpur in Rajastan, Surat in Gujarat, Karur in Tamil Nadu, and Delhi and Mumbai. These are main production centers of textiles in the country.
Low-end quilts and duvets have plain or printed cotton voile or polyester shells and 150 to 200gsm cotton filling. Patterns may be block printed. Prices are $20 to $25.
Midrange releases adopt cotton voile, jacquard and velvet, cotton-linen, glazed cotton and rayon for the shell. These have a three-layer cotton or polyester filling. Products may be plain or printed. The latter can be manually silk-screened or digitally printed. Patchwork, kantha and ikat styles are likewise available. Releases go for $26 to $40.
Upscale pieces utilize cotton that is treated to improve skin-friendly properties. Silk brocade, jacquard and organza are also employed. The filling is made of three layers of cotton or microfiber. Patchwork, embroidery and traditional printing methods boost aesthetics. Quotes start at $41 and can exceed $60.
Related reports:
Cotton models dominate as modal, Tencel bedding sets pick up
Bedding suppliers heighten softness, breathability
Varied materials, styles expand matching bedding sets