Ikat to Kalamkari: 7 Indian textiles to add a touch of tradition to your modern homes
Authentic Indian handloom textiles bring warmth, character and handcrafted beauty into modern homes. Check out ideas to blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
Textiles shape a home’s personality like nothing else can. The Indian textile industry brims with treasures that turn bare rooms into soulful spaces layered with craft, history and warmth. From airy cotton drapes to rich silk brocades, Indian handloom textiles slip easily into modern homes, bringing with them stories of weavers, dyes, and motifs passed down through generations.
Think of these textiles not just as fabric but as design allies, but smart picks that lift a room with colour, texture and quiet luxury.
7 Indian textiles that will help you change your house into an artistic home
Kalamkari
Rooted in Andhra Pradesh, Kalamkari is an art on cloth. Each piece carries hand-painted or block-printed motifs inspired by nature and myth. Use Kalamkari as framed panels behind a bed or console table. Cushion covers in muted Kalamkari patterns balance a neutral sofa without fighting for attention. Table runners add an instant dash of craft to dining spaces. Cotton Kalamkari breathes well, making it perfect for warm climates and easy to care for.
Ikat
Ikat’s blurred edges and geometric patterns create energy in a room without feeling busy. Found in Odisha, Telangana and Gujarat, this textile works beautifully as curtains that filter light while adding subtle drama. Bench upholstery in bold Ikat turns a forgotten corner into a highlight. Small hits like lamp shades or placemats keep the look playful without crowding a space. Ikat’s tight weave makes it durable for everyday use.
Kantha
Kantha from Bengal takes discarded cloth and stitches it into something new and charming. Lightweight quilts double up as throws over reading chairs or at the foot of a bed. For a twist, frame sections of vintage Kantha and hang them in sets for a gallery wall that feels handmade yet modern. Cushion covers in Kantha add a pattern without overwhelming a calm corner. The cotton keeps rooms cool and airy.
Banarasi Brocade
Nothing says rich heritage like Banarasi Brocade from Varanasi. This silk fabric, woven with metallic threads, brings regal flair in small doses. Use Brocade for throw pillows on a solid-coloured sofa to create an instant focal point. A narrow runner made from Brocade can turn a plain coffee table into a festive centrepiece. For a bold move, cover the back panel of an armchair in Brocade and pair it with muted upholstery elsewhere.
Ajrakh
Ajrakh from Gujarat is all about deep indigo and detailed block prints. Panels of Ajrakh stretched on wooden frames become art that holds its own in contemporary rooms. Cushion covers or floor cushions made with Ajrakh tie together earthy palettes. Curtains in Ajrakh filter harsh light and cast soft, patterned shadows that change through the day. Always pick pieces dyed naturally for the authentic depth of colour.
Khadi
Khadi is an honest, fuss-free fabric at its best. Spun and woven by hand, it breathes beautifully and softens over time. Khadi curtains work wonders in rooms that catch harsh sunlight, mellowing brightness while keeping interiors breezy. Bedsheets and duvet covers in Khadi feel crisp yet inviting. Table linen in soft Khadi checks or stripes pairs well with rustic crockery. Always source from trusted weavers to get the real handloom texture.
Bagh Print
Bagh print from Madhya Pradesh wears its bold motifs with pride. The red and black palette feels dramatic yet balanced. Bagh print cushion covers can break the monotony of a neutral living room. Try using Bagh yardage as a wall hanging above a console or as a bold table runner under muted ceramics. This cotton textile holds dye well, staying vivid wash after wash. Authentic Bagh is still river-washed and dyed with natural colours, worth seeking out for its depth and character.
The Indian textile industry is far more than fabric on a shelf. It is a direct link to craftspeople whose skill turns simple threads into art that breathes life into a home. Thoughtful textile decor ideas add warmth and a quiet conscience to any room.
Look for authentic Indian handloom textiles from trusted artisans and fair collectives. Every piece you bring in celebrates real craft and keeps our weaving traditions alive, turning walls and furniture into stories worth sharing.
Similar articles for you
10 popular Indian art forms you can use in your home decor
Why vintage decor is making a comeback: Textile museum designer Ravisha Merchant weighs in
Best mattresses for a peaceful and comfortable sleep; Here are our top 8 picks for you
Mattress matters: Find your dreamy match made in heaven; Nap like a champ!
Indian textiles in home decor: FAQs
- Why use Indian textiles for home decor?
Indian handloom textiles carry stories, craft and history that machine-made fabric just cannot match. They lift a room’s mood, add warmth and bring a layer of cultural depth that turns everyday spaces into inviting corners.
- How can I start adding Indian textiles without overdoing it?
Begin with cushion covers, light drapes or a statement runner. Small changes let you explore textile decor ideas without a big makeover. A single Kalamkari panel or Ikat throw can anchor a whole room beautifully.
- Are Indian handloom textiles high maintenance?
Not really. Most Indian textiles, especially cottons and Khadi, are quite easy to care for. Gentle washing and shade drying keep colours fresh. Delicate silks or Brocades need a bit more love, so dry clean when in doubt
- Where should I buy authentic Indian textiles for decor?
Skip mass-produced versions and support artisan clusters, weaver cooperatives or trusted craft platforms. This way, you get genuine Indian handloom textiles, help sustain the textile industry and bring home pieces that feel unique and honest.
The author of this article holds a Master's Degree in Interior Design and has spent over a decade in research, teaching, and designing homes from scratch.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
