What is tussar silk?

Tussar silk (also known as Tasar/Tussah/Tushar/Tasser/Tosor/Kosa) is a type of wild silk produced primarily in the states of West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand. It is produced from silkworms called antherea mylitta that feed on the leaves of the arjun and asan plants (each variety of silk is distinguished by the type of silkworms producing the silk yarn along with the leaves they eat).

Characteristics of tussar silk

Tussar silk reflects the exotic and untamed spirit of the wild silkworm producing it, in its feel, colour and sheen. It is quite textured, comes in a range of natural colours like beige, cream, honey and tawny, and has an uneven golden sheen. It is often dyed to take up more vibrant colours and can be easily blended with cotton, wool, linen or other silks. Clothes made of tussar silk have unique thermal properties - they keep warm in winter and cool in summer. 

Sarees from tussar silk

Sarees are by far the most abundant product of tussar silk. Traditional Bengal tussar sarees come in the natural shades of beige or cream with a coloured border and pallav, and floral and paisley motifs woven across the body. Contemporary designs with striped or geometric patterns are quite popular as well. Tussar silk also forms a great canvas for kantha embroidery, where the plain fabric is colourfully adorned with embroidered patterns to form the borders and pallav of the saree.

Within this exquisite silk category, Bhagalpuri Tussar Sarees and Gopalpur Tussar Sarees stand out as revered variations, each weaving its own unique tale of tradition and sophistication.

Bhagalpuri Tussar Sarees: Hailing from the historic region of Bhagalpur, these sarees are a testament to the rich weaving heritage of Bihar. Bhagalpuri Tussar Sarees are known for their unmatched quality, exquisite texture, and a diverse range of colors and designs. The craftsmanship of Bhagalpuri artisans shines through, creating sarees that effortlessly blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics.

Gopalpur Tussar Sarees: Gopalpur, renowned for its silk weaving legacy, contributes its own chapter to the story of Tussar Silk. Gopalpur Tussar Sarees are characterized by their unique textures and natural sheen, showcasing the skilled artistry of local weavers. These sarees embody a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity, making them a symbol of grace and sophistication.

 

 

Explore our Tussar Silk Sarees Collection

References

Tussar Silk. In Wikipedia. Retrieved 17 September 2015, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tussar_silk

More about Silkworms and Silk fiber - Mulberry, Muga, Tasar and Eri. Retrieved 17 September 2015, from http://mytextilenotes.blogspot.be/2010/09/more-about-silkworms-and-silk-fiber.html