In a major breakthrough in the handloom sector, Vijayawada-based Weavers’ Service Centre (WSC), under the Government of India, has come up with the country’s first linen saree, also known as Extra Warp Dobby Design Saree, in the range of 120s lea Linen X 120s lea Linen.

“The saree, which was designed and woven by a WSC team led by our weaver G. Pulla Rao on handloom at the WSC, is meant to make waves on the fashion scene. Another saree (100s lea Lenin X 100 lea Lenin – Muttu Extra Warp Design) available with us may also tempt fashion designers,” WSC Deputy Director Vishesh Nautiyal said.

In fact, the experiment began in October 2013, and it took nearly a year for the WSC to come out with the variety. “Weaving the saree was the toughest part, as we had to overcome several technical problems owing to the nature of the linen yarn,” Mr. Vishesh added.

The team of experts included Mr. Vishesh, Superintendent (weaving) M. Joga Rao and the weaver Mr. Pulla Rao. The trio claimed that the power loom sector could not compete with the handloom sector in the making of the saree, given the techniques involved.

The WSC solely aims at product development and is prepared to extend technical support to interested parties for the manufacture of the saree. However, the WSC has just one saree to their credit. But, experts, including Mr. Pulla Rao, predict it can be woven in three days.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Vijayawada / by T. Appala Naidu / Machilipatnam – September 02nd, 2014