Phulkari Embroidery from Punjab — B2B Sourcing Guide

Phulkari means "flower work" — an embroidery tradition from Punjab where floss silk thread creates dense, geometric floral patterns on a base cotton or silk fabric. GI-protected, culturally iconic, revived commercially for global markets.

Phulkari Styles

Bagh — Fully embroidered, no base cloth visible
Chope — Two long borders (traditional bridal)
Suber — Central medallion pattern
Vari-da-Bagh — Bridal shawl with red/orange threads
Sainchi — Story-picture embroidery
Contemporary — Modern colour palettes, lighter density

Product Applications

Dupattas and stoles
Kurtas and tunics
Sarees
Bags and clutches
Cushion covers
Wall hangings

MOQs & Pricing (FOB India)

Contemporary Phulkari dupatta — 100 pcs, $18–32 per piece
Traditional Bagh shawl — 25 pcs, $65–140 per piece
Phulkari kurta — 100 pcs, $22–38 per piece
Phulkari cushion cover — 200 pcs, $14–22 per piece

Lead Times

Sampling: 4 weeks
Bulk (artisan-embroidered): 60–120 days depending on density

Frequently Asked Questions

What payment terms are standard for Indian textile imports?

Standard payment structure is 30% advance via TT (telegraphic transfer) plus 70% against copy of bill of lading. Letters of credit (LC) are recommended for first-time relationships or large orders ($50,000+). Established repeat buyers can negotiate DA/DP terms or open account. Avoid 100% advance payment except for very small sample orders.

How do I verify an Indian supplier before placing a large order?

Verify: IEC code (Indian Import-Export Code from DGFT), GST registration, physical factory address (via video call or third-party visit), references from 2+ existing international customers, SEDEX or BSCI social audit, relevant OEKO-TEX/GOTS scope certificates. Pre-shipment inspection is essential — budget $250–500 per shipment via SGS, Intertek or Bureau Veritas.

What HS code applies to my product for import duty?

HS code depends on fibre composition and construction. Silk items are Chapter 50; wool Chapter 51; cotton Chapter 52; knitted apparel Chapter 61; woven apparel Chapter 62; home textiles Chapter 63. Get a formal HS code determination from your destination customs broker before first import — mis-classification causes customs delays and unexpected duty charges.

Can Indian suppliers ship directly to my end customer (dropshipping)?

Yes, dropshipping from India is technically possible. But it comes with challenges: 14–35 day sea transit customer expectation management, unexpected destination duty charges, complex returns handling, quality control gaps per shipment. For most brands, a wholesale-import-then-fulfil model produces better customer experience than pure dropshipping.

About Blueridge Trade LLP

Blueridge Trade LLP operates a dual business model. Our textile division is a direct manufacturer — we own and operate the production of our cashmere, Merino wool, silk, organic cotton and blended fabric programmes, controlling quality from fibre sourcing through finishing.

Beyond textiles, we operate as a trading and sourcing partner for industrial commodities (copper, aluminium, zinc, tin, tungsten scrap, activated carbon), botanicals and spices, export-grade packaging, and consumables. In these categories we leverage a vetted network of Indian producers rather than manufacturing in-house — giving international buyers a single consolidated point of contact for both textile manufacturing and broader Indian sourcing requirements.

Phulkari Embroidery from Punjab: B2B Sourcing Guide