Handmade vs Handloom — What Is the Difference?
The words handmade and handloom are often used interchangeably in Indian fashion, but they mean different things. Understanding the difference helps you make better buying decisions and appreciate what you are actually paying for.
What does handloom mean?
Handloom refers specifically to how a fabric is woven. A handloom fabric is woven on a loom that is operated by hand — without electricity or automation. Famous handloom fabrics include Khadi, Chanderi, Kanjivaram silk, Banarasi silk, Sambalpuri, and Ikat.
What does handmade mean?
Handmade refers to how a garment is crafted. A handmade garment is made by an artisan using hand skills — hand-stitching, hand-block printing, hand embroidery, hand smocking, or hand-finishing. The fabric used in a handmade garment may or may not be handloom.
Can something be both handmade and handloom?
Yes. A kurta woven on a handloom AND hand-block printed AND hand-stitched by a tailor is both handmade and handloom. At Haus of Handmade, products are crafted by hand — combining handmade construction with quality fabrics, including handloom options like Chanderi.
How can I tell if something is genuinely handmade?
- Slight variations in print alignment or stitch length — machine production is perfectly uniform; handmade is not
- Block print impressions with subtle colour variation from stamp pressure
- Hand-finished hems and linings that show a tailor's individual technique
- The brand describes who makes the product and where
Is handloom clothing always expensive?
Not always. Basic handloom cotton like Khadi can be quite affordable. Entry-level handmade cotton kurtas and co-ord sets are available in India from around Rs 800 to Rs 2,500.
Which is better for daily wear — handmade or handloom?
For daily office or casual wear, handmade cotton garments are often the better choice over handloom silk or complex weaves. For everyday wear, look for handmade kurta sets in cotton or linen — they combine artisan quality with practicality.
Why does it matter?
Knowing the difference matters for three reasons. First, you pay for what you actually receive. Second, genuine handmade and handloom production supports artisan livelihoods directly. Third, handmade garments have character — the small imperfections are proof of the human touch.
Views are personal, and not paid and this basis experience only.
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