What to Look for When Buying Authentic Handicrafts Online

In today’s world, buying authentic handicrafts online has become easier than ever. Whether you’re purchasing a Banarasi silk saree, a hand-painted Pattachitra artwork, or eco-friendly Sabai grass products, online marketplaces provide a vast range of unique and beautiful handcrafted items. However, amidst the growing demand for traditional crafts, it’s crucial to know how to distinguish authentic handicrafts from mass-produced imitations. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of buying authentic handicrafts online, ensuring you invest in products that support artisans and preserve India’s rich cultural heritage.

1. Know the Craft: Research the Art Form and Materials

The first step in ensuring that you’re purchasing an authentic product is to understand the craft itself. Whether it’s Banarasi silk, Khandua silk, Pattachitra paintings, or Dhokra art, each craft has its own history, unique techniques, and materials. For example:

• Banarasi Silk Saree: Known for its intricate zari work, the Banarasi silk saree is traditionally woven using fine silk threads and decorated with gold or silver brocade. Authentic Banarasi sarees are handcrafted by skilled weavers in Varanasi, and they feature detailed patterns and motifs.

• Khandua Silk Saree: Originating from Odisha, Khandua silk sarees are known for their stunning handloom weaving technique and bright, bold patterns. The traditional Khandua saree features intricate motifs, often depicting temples, animals, and nature.

• Pattachitra Paintings: Pattachitra is an ancient form of hand-painted artwork originating from Odisha. The paintings are characterized by intricate details and mythological themes, with natural colors derived from minerals, plant extracts, and other organic materials.

Researching the art form allows you to understand its authenticity better. Familiarize yourself with the typical materials used, the design styles, and the regional history behind the handicraft. When you know what to expect, you will be better equipped to identify genuine products.

2. Check the Material and Craftsmanship

Authentic handicrafts are made with high-quality materials that are often sourced locally. For example, Sabai grass products, such as baskets and mats, are woven by hand and typically feature organic fibers. Similarly, golden grass items, crafted from the golden-colored grass found in the wild, showcase intricate craftsmanship.

When buying handicrafts online, pay close attention to the materials used. Look for products made with natural fibers or eco-friendly materials, as these are indicators of authenticity. Authentic handicrafts often highlight the traditional weaving techniques or hand-painting methods employed, which distinguishes them from machine-made products. When purchasing Banarasi silk or Khandua silk, check whether the product description mentions the type of silk used and whether it's pure or blended.

If you’re purchasing items such as Dhokra art (traditional metal casting), the craftsmanship should reflect the age-old techniques passed down through generations. Check for fine detailing, intricate patterns, and rough textures that show the skill and care of the artisan.

3. Look for Verified Sellers and Artisan Support

One of the most reliable ways to ensure you're buying authentic handicrafts online is to buy from verified sellers who source their products directly from artisans. Many online platforms are now offering a marketplace for artisan-made goods, ensuring that the products sold are genuine and crafted with care.

Check if the website or seller mentions their partnership with artisans. For instance, Atulya Karigari is an example of a platform that works closely with skilled weavers and artists, supporting the local communities and promoting sustainable practices. The best websites highlight the stories of their artisans and provide details about their sourcing practices, ensuring transparency and authenticity.

Furthermore, look for certifications or claims that the products are sourced from regions known for their craftsmanship. For example, Banarasi silk sarees are best purchased directly from Varanasi or trusted platforms that promote regional craftsmanship.

4. Verify the Product Descriptions and Images

When buying handicrafts online, accurate product descriptions and high-quality images play a crucial role in identifying authentic items. Authentic products will always have detailed descriptions mentioning the materials used, the artisans involved, the region of origin, and the techniques employed. For example, a Khandua silk saree should mention the traditional handloom weaving technique and highlight the intricate designs that are unique to the region.

Look for clear, close-up images that show the texture, details, and workmanship. This is especially important for products like Pattachitra art and hand-painted items, where fine detailing is key. For handwoven textiles like Banarasi silk and Khandua silk sarees, the product images should showcase the weaving patterns and zari work to give you a better understanding of the item’s quality.

Avoid websites that provide generic or poor-quality images, as they may be a red flag for counterfeit products.

5. Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials

One of the most effective ways to assess the authenticity of a product is by reading customer reviews and testimonials. Real customers who have purchased authentic handicrafts will share their experiences and provide insight into the quality of the product, the craftsmanship, and the seller’s service.

Look for reviews that mention the quality of materials, the authenticity of the craft, and the seller’s customer service. Authentic handicrafts should have consistently positive reviews, with feedback that highlights their uniqueness, durability, and overall beauty. Reviews can also offer valuable information on how the item looks in real life, beyond the online images.

6. Ensure the Price Is Reflective of the Craftsmanship

Authentic handicrafts, especially those made with handloom fabrics or fine detailing like Pattachitra paintings and Dhokra art, can be costly due to the labor-intensive techniques involved. Be cautious of products that seem priced too low. While discounts and deals can happen, an extremely low price may indicate that the product is not genuine or made with lower-quality materials.

A Banarasi silk saree or a hand-painted item should have a price that reflects its intricate design, quality of material, and the expertise of the artisans. It’s important to understand that purchasing authentic handicrafts is an investment in cultural preservation and artisan livelihoods.

7. Check for Return and Exchange Policies

Finally, ensure that the online seller has a clear return and exchange policy in case the product doesn’t meet your expectations. A reputable seller who deals in authentic handicrafts will be confident in the quality of their products and should offer a fair return policy. This is especially important for high-value items like Banarasi silk sarees and handcrafted home decor.

Conclusion

Buying authentic handicrafts online can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. By understanding the craft, checking the materials and craftsmanship, supporting verified artisans, and being mindful of product descriptions, customer reviews, and prices, you can confidently make informed purchases. Supporting Indian artisans and preserving traditional crafts like Banarasi silk, Khandua silk, Pattachitra, and Dhokra art is not just about owning beautiful products—it’s about sustaining a cultural legacy. When you invest in authentic handicrafts, you are directly contributing to the livelihoods of artisans and the promotion of sustainable, ethical fashion.