Don’t throw them yet

There can be many ways to reuse old Saaris

We all have old sarees gifted by our in-laws or mother, which we can’t wear now. Often such old sarees are either eaten away by silverfish or get themselves torn at the folds. Don’t throw away your precious wedding saree or the rich Kanjeevarams or the heavy Benarasis, which you got during your wedding. Instead separate the zari rich border, butis (gotas) and the pallu. Here are a few ideas.

Salwar kameez

Ask your tailor or the designer to attach the zari at the hemlines of your kameez or create a pattern involving the neck and sleeves depending on the length available. The pallu of the saree can also be made into the front portion of the kameez.

Skirts

You can also attach the borders of a saree to the hemline of a skirt. If the skirt the layered, then you can attach at the hemlines of those layers. You can also make zari jackets to team up with the skirts and plain tops.

Sarees

You can also restitch the border and the pallu of the saree on to a new one, preferably of the same material and colour as the original.

Cushions

Bags made using old Saaris

Use the border. Cut the border into strips of equal length.  Stitch the strips side-wise or in the form of a square to fit the size of a cushion. Attach a matching piece of cloth to complete it. Viola!! A brand new ethnic cushion cover is made, just in a few minutes.

Quilts

Follow the above mentioned pattern to create the length and width of a quilt. You can also use fabric material of different length to create this effect.

Miscellaneous

Similarly you can ask your designer to make bags or purses out of the zari pieces. You can also cut interesting patterns out of the material to create your unique touch.

Make them interesting

If the colour of your saree has become a bit dull or is not of your choice, then you can get them dyed of a color of your choice. You can also add sequins or ribbons or tassels to the saree to create an interesting effect.

Use your imagination and creativity to create magic around you. All one needs is little spare time and innovative ideas. You can sell the sarees off if you like. But these ideas will help you to retain those nostalgic memories and at the same time be of immense use to your household.

If you have any more tips on how to use old Saaris – share with other readers of We Women Today by writing in the comments below.