Materials To Use "Saris"

Traditional Sari Costume

Saris were traditionally worn in Southern Asia and consist of several yards of cloth draped around the body to create a skirt and cover the head and shoulders. 

Our Saris are usually 1-2 yard lengths of material surged around the edges to prevent fraying but you can also use sheets, table cloths, runners, curtain panels, you name it!  

We use the saris to wrap, tuck, and tie or pin for an endless supply of costumes.  No need to spend lots of time and money sewing each individual look, just simply untie and then create a new design with the same pieces.  Remember, you are the designer.  This is just a starting point, you'll come up with your own great ideas.  Your choice of fabric will effect your final look however, so we've listed a few things to consider.

Color-

Rich contrasting color combinations create the most appealing designs. Look 

for both fabrics that are solid and those with design on them.  These work especially well for layering and creating a more dramatic effect.

Weight- 

Lighter fabrics are easiest to twist and tie and create the most flow and drape.  Heavier materials  work best on the bottom, such as a skirt, but can also work well as back drops.

Texture 

A great dress up box has lots of different textured saris.  Sheer material gets lots of play as veils and trains while lace can dress up any design.  Drapery fabrics have been among our favorites.       

Modesty-   

In our home we always dress up over our clothes, for modesty purposes, since the designs are usually only tied on.  Don't worry, the clothes will not take away from the look, you can just use them as a part of the design as seen here!

We also use long strips of fabric as sashes to create ties, headbands, belts and more.  Tule creates an extra special look laid over the top of any gown.  Ropes and belts work nicely as well.