Red Check Khadi Fabric: Handspun Kora Cotton Yardage

Fabric specifications and care

Material and colouring

Cotton yarns naturally dyed.

Weight (GSM)

160 g/m²

Width

44"

Length

1 yard

Hand feel

The cloth has a nubbly, slubby surface typical of handspun kora cotton with a reassuring medium weight (approximately 150–200 GSM) — substantial in the hand yet breathable. It holds a structured drape rather than a soft fluid fall, so seams and pleats sit with gentle body; the weave shows clear check definition and small irregularities which add tactile character visible in the images.

Drape rating

2/5

Transparency

Opaque

Suggested uses

✦ Ideal for Casual button-up shirts and overshirts (shackets) for everyday layering; Shirt-dresses and smock dresses with simple seams and topstitching; Mid-weight A-line or gathered skirts (knee to midi length); Cushion covers, table runners and napkins for a tactile, natural-linen look; Lightweight unlined overshirts/jackets for spring/autumn. These uses take advantage of the fabric’s medium weight, structured drape and the handspun surface that looks both deliberate and lived-in. ✦ Also suitable for With minor adjustments this cloth works well for lined lightweight trousers or culottes (use a soft cotton lining), lined casual jackets or tailored vests, structured tote bags and work aprons with interfacing, and children’s pinafores or simple rompers if pre-washed to control shrinkage. ✦ Not recommended for Avoid fine bias-cut eveningwear or fluid dresses that need high drape, swimwear or performance activewear, heavy upholstery for seating, and very close-to-skin baby underwear — the handspun surface can be a little textured for those applications.

Care instructions

Wash at 30°C or cooler on a gentle cycle, use a mild, pH-neutral detergent and wash separately the first time; do not bleach. Line dry in the shade or dry flat to avoid sun-fading; iron on a medium cotton setting while slightly damp or use steam. Store folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the natural dye.

Washing and shrinkage

Machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle or hand wash with mild detergent; expect approximately 4–6% shrinkage on the first wash if unprewashed — pre-wash yardage before cutting to stabilise size and colour.

Craft story

Woven in small batches from handspun kora cotton, this Red Check Khadi is made by skilled weavers and dyers working in traditional Indian handloom communities. The checks are set by careful warp-and-weft placement on narrow looms and the yarns are naturally dyed using plant-based colours, giving each length a quietly irregular, artisan finish. What makes it special is the combination of rustic handspun texture and a refined checked repeat — a cloth that reads handmade at first touch but sits comfortably in contemporary garments and home pieces.

Colour notes

A warm, deep red with slight tonal variation and the subtle ‘unevenness’ you expect from vegetable dye on handspun yarns — some areas read a touch richer, others a little softer. In warm indoor light the red feels cosy and brick-toned; in bright daylight it reads fresher and a little more saturated.

Additional notes

Please note: natural dye colours may vary slightly between batches and the handspun yarns will show small slubs and irregularities — these are a feature, not a fault. Pre-wash your yardage before cutting to allow for initial shrinkage and any slight colour run-off.