How to Stitch an Unstitched Ajrak Two-Piece: Designs and Tailor Tips

An unstitched Ajrak two-piece from Sartiyoon has 2.5 metres of shirt fabric and a 2.5 metre dupatta, both 42 to 44 inches wide. That's enough for a straight or A-line kurta for most sizes. It doesn't include trouser fabric, so you'll need about 2.5 metres of plain fabric for the trousers. Wash cotton once before stitching, and tell your tailor where you want the main print to sit.

What's in the two-piece

• Shirt: 2.5 m, 42 to 44 inches wide, hand block printed
• Dupatta: 2.5 m, 42 to 44 inches wide, in a matching print
• Trousers: not included

Most of our two-pieces come in cotton or lawn. If you haven't chosen yet, read cotton vs lawn Ajrak first, because the fabric changes which designs work best.

Designs that work with 2.5 metres

Straight kurta

The simplest design and the one that shows the print best, because there are no gathers breaking up the pattern. It works in both cotton and lawn. A side slit and a plain round or band neck keep the focus on the Ajrak.

A-line kurta

Slightly flared from the chest down. It's flattering on most body types and works best in cotton, which holds the flare.

Angrakha

A wrap-front kurta tied at the side. It looks dressier and suits weddings and evening events. Choose cotton for a crisp wrap. Ask your tailor whether your size and length need extra fabric for the overlap.

Kaftan-style shirt

Loose, with wide sleeves cut in one piece with the body. Lawn is better here because it falls softly.

Designs that may need more fabric

Full-length frocks, heavily flared anarkalis and long gowns usually need more than 2.5 metres. If you want one of these, ask your tailor before cutting. Our Ajrak meterage guide lists how much fabric different styles take.

What trousers to pair with Ajrak

Ajrak prints are busy, so plain trousers usually look best. Pick a colour that's already in the print:

• Black goes with almost every Ajrak, especially black-base prints like Black Chunri.
• White or off-white keeps the look light for summer.
• Maroon or deep red suits red and maroon Ajrak.

For the cut, straight trousers, shalwar and cigarette pants all work. A plain or Ajrak skirt is another option if you want a longer silhouette.

Before you go to the tailor

1. Wash cotton once. Cotton can shrink slightly in its first wash. Wash it separately in cold water so any excess dye comes out too, then dry it in the shade.
2. Decide where the print sits. Lay the fabric out and decide which part of the pattern you want on the front, the neckline and the sleeves. Ajrak often has a border, and many people like it at the hem or on the sleeves.
3. Expect small variations. Every piece is printed by hand, so the print won't line up perfectly at every seam. That's normal, and it's one way to tell real hand block printing from a machine print.

Finishing touches

• Ajrak fabric buttons. We sell hand block printed buttons in sets of six for Rs 60. They suit a placket on a straight kurta or a plain shirt you want to tie to the outfit.
• Lining for light lawn. If your lawn is a light colour, ask for a lining.
• The dupatta. It's ready to wear as it comes. Some people add tassels or lace to the edges, but the print usually looks best plain.

A checklist for your tailor

• Design and length (for example, a straight kurta at knee length)
• Neckline and sleeve length
• Where the border and main motifs should go
• Lining, if it's light-coloured lawn
• Buttons or other trims you're bringing
• A reminder to press on low heat, inside out

If you'd rather skip the tailor, have a look at our ready to wear Ajrak. Or browse unstitched two-pieces to pick your next one.

Frequently asked questions

How much fabric is in an Ajrak two-piece?

Our two-pieces have a 2.5 metre shirt and a 2.5 metre dupatta, both 42 to 44 inches wide.

Is 2.5 metres enough for an Ajrak kurta?

Yes, for a straight or A-line kurta in most sizes. Full-length frocks and heavily flared designs usually need more.

Does the two-piece include trousers?

No. You'll need about 2.5 metres of plain fabric for trousers.

Should I wash Ajrak before stitching?

Yes, especially cotton. Wash it once, separately, in cold water to allow for shrinkage and excess dye.

What colour trousers go with Ajrak?

A plain colour from the print. Black, white and maroon work with most Ajrak.