FAQ
PARVAI – Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT PARVAI
What is Parvai?
Parvai is a patron-focused textile studio dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed handcrafted textiles in collaboration with artisan communities across India. Every textile is developed through research, dialogue and slow production, with an emphasis on quality, authenticity and long-term relationships.
Are you a registered business in India?
Yes. Parvai is a legally registered business in India and operates in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. We issue GST tax invoices for every purchase and are committed to maintaining complete transparency in our operations.
Do you have a physical store?
Parvai does not currently operate a physical retail store. Instead, we work through our offices, weaving clusters and artisan craft spaces.
Where are your offices located?
Parvai has offices in Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu), Kottayam (Kerala) and Dubai (UAE). In addition, we work closely with artisan communities and weaving clusters across several parts of India.
VISITING PARVAI
Can I visit Parvai?
Yes. While Parvai does not currently operate a physical retail store, we have offices in Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu), Kottayam (Kerala) and Dubai (UAE), and we work closely with artisan communities and weaving clusters across India.
For patrons who wish to experience the making of our textiles, we can arrange guided visits to selected weaving clusters and craft spaces. As these are active working environments rather than tourist destinations, all visits are by prior appointment and are carefully coordinated with our artisan partners.
To ensure a meaningful experience for both our patrons and the artisan families we work with, we kindly request at least one month’s advance notice before your intended visit. This allows us to coordinate schedules, organise the appropriate artisans and looms, and curate a personalised visit based on your interests.
Are all your products handmade?
Yes. Every Parvai textile is handmade and involves skilled processes such as hand weaving, hand block printing, hand dyeing, hand embroidery, or a combination of these techniques.
What fibres do you use?
We work exclusively with natural fibres. These include mulberry silk, eri silk, tussar silk, muga silk, natural cotton, linen and other natural fibres depending on the collection. We do not blend our textiles with artificial fibres.
Where are your textiles made?
Our textiles are created in collaboration with artisan communities across India, including Kanchipuram, Maheshwar, Chanderi, Varanasi, Kota, Kutch, Bagru, Farrukhabad and several other weaving and craft clusters.
OUR SARIS
Are all your saris pure silk?
No. While many of our saris are woven using pure silk, we also work with natural cotton, linen, organza, chiffon, silk-cotton and other natural fibres. The composition of every textile is clearly mentioned in its product description.
Do your saris contain starch?
No. We never use starch on our saris. Every textile is delivered in its natural finish so that you experience its true softness, movement and drape.
Will my sari look exactly like the photographs?
Because every textile is handcrafted, slight variations in weave, colour, texture and motif placement are natural. These are not defects but a reflection of the handmade process, making every piece unique.
Can I wear my sari regularly?
Absolutely. Our textiles are designed to be worn and enjoyed. With proper care, they are suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
ORDERS & CUSTOMISATION
Do you undertake custom orders?
Yes. Bespoke commissions are available only for existing patrons whose cumulative purchases with Parvai exceed ₹1,00,000. This allows us to dedicate the time and artisan resources required for custom work.
Do you accept pre-orders?
Yes, but only for existing patrons whose cumulative purchases with Parvai exceed ₹2,00,000. Since many of our textiles are woven specifically for each patron, pre-orders are reserved for long-standing clients.
Can I request a different colour?
In many cases, yes. Depending on the weave, dyeing process and stage of production, certain colour customisations may be possible.
Can I reserve a sari?
Yes. Selected saris may be reserved for a limited period, subject to availability.
How long will a bespoke order take?
Every bespoke textile is woven specifically for you. Depending on the complexity of the weave and artisan availability, production generally takes several weeks to a few months.
PAYMENTS
What payment methods do you accept?
We offer three convenient payment options.
Online Payment
Orders may be completed securely through our website using our Razorpay payment gateway, which accepts major credit and debit cards and other supported payment methods.
Bank Transfer (India)
If you prefer to pay by bank transfer, we will first require your shipping address and contact details. We will then issue a GST tax invoice containing our bank account details, after which payment may be made from any Indian bank account.
International Bank Transfer
International patrons may also pay via bank transfer. We will issue a GST tax invoice with our banking details, and payment can be made through services such as Wise, Remitly or any recognised international remittance provider.
When is my order confirmed?
Orders are confirmed only after payment has been received and acknowledged by our accounts team.
Will I receive an invoice?
Yes. Every purchase is accompanied by a GST tax invoice.
SHIPPING
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide.
Which courier service do you use?
Most international orders are shipped via India Post. If you require faster delivery, private courier services such as DHL may be arranged at actual shipping cost.
How long does shipping take?
Standard international shipping generally takes between 15 and 20 working days, depending on the destination. Express courier services are considerably faster.
Will I receive tracking details?
Yes. Tracking information is shared immediately after dispatch.
CARE
How should I care for my sari?
Each Parvai textile is supplied with its own care instructions, as different fibres and techniques require different methods of care.
In general, most of our natural fibre textiles can be gently hand washed at home using a mild detergent and dried naturally in the shade. If you are not comfortable washing your textile at home, professional dry cleaning is always a safe alternative, especially for delicate silks and intricately crafted pieces.
We recommend avoiding unnecessary washing. Unless the textile has been soiled, simply airing it in a shaded, well-ventilated space after use is often sufficient to refresh it while preserving its natural fibres, colours and longevity.
Should I refold my sari?
Yes. Periodically refolding your sari helps prevent permanent creases and extends its life.
RETURNS & EXCHANGES
Do you accept returns?
As every Parvai textile is handcrafted and produced in limited quantities, returns are accepted only in exceptional circumstances. If there is an issue with your order, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery.
Can I exchange my sari?
Exchanges are considered on a case-by-case basis and are subject to availability.
AUTHENTICITY
How do I know my textile is authentic?
Every Parvai textile is created directly with artisan communities with whom we work closely. We maintain complete transparency regarding materials, weaving techniques and production processes.
Why are handmade textiles more expensive?
Each textile represents weeks or even months of skilled craftsmanship, natural materials and fair artisan wages. Rather than mass-producing designs, we intentionally create limited quantities that celebrate the individuality of handmade work.
GENERAL
Do you restock sold-out designs?
Most Parvai textiles are never reproduced exactly. While we may revisit a weave or technique, each creation remains unique.
Do you help clients choose a textile?
Absolutely. Whether you are looking for an heirloom sari, a wedding textile, an everyday piece or a special gift, we are happy to guide you in choosing a textile that best suits your needs.
What makes Parvai different?
Parvai is not simply a textile brand. We work alongside artisan communities to create textiles that honour traditional knowledge while embracing thoughtful innovation. Every purchase supports skilled craftspeople, sustains living traditions and contributes to a slower, more responsible approach to making textiles.