Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions, honest answers. If yours isn't here, WhatsApp us on +91 8796711007.
About the Craft
What is Ajrakh?
Ajrakh is a centuries-old block-printing tradition from Kachchh and Sindh. It uses hand-carved wooden blocks, natural dyes like indigo and madder, and a multi-stage process that can take 16 to 18 days per length of cloth. No two pieces are identical.
Are your dyes natural?
Our hand block-printed Ajrakh uses traditional natural dyes such as indigo and madder. Not every Gul piece is naturally dyed — embroidered jackets, festive sarees and some printed modal silk kaftans use conventional dyes. Where a piece is naturally dyed, its product page says so. If you'd like to know about a specific piece, just ask.
What is Bandhani?
Bandhani is a tie-dye technique from Gujarat and Rajasthan where tiny portions of fabric are tied with thread before dyeing, creating intricate dot patterns. A single dupatta can have thousands of individual ties, each done by hand.
What is Suzani?
Suzani is a hand-embroidery tradition from Central Asia, now practised by artisan communities in India too. Large, bold floral and geometric motifs are stitched onto cotton, silk or velvet.
Are these pieces made in a factory?
No. Our pieces are made in small batches by artisan families and small workshops in Rajasthan and Gujarat, not in factories.
Why do two pieces of the same design look slightly different?
Because they are made by hand. Block alignment, dye absorption and stitch vary naturally. This is not a defect. It is proof of the process.
Sizing and Fit
How do I know what size to order?
Most of our kaftans, jackets and vests are free size with a relaxed fit. Send us your measurements on WhatsApp and we'll tell you exactly how a piece will sit on you before you order.
Can I request a custom size?
Yes, for select pieces. See Custom Orders below or message us directly.
Shipping and Delivery
Where do you ship?
Across India, and to 60 countries by tracked courier. Your rate is calculated at checkout from your country and the weight of your order. For a single piece: South Asia from ₹950, the UAE and Gulf from ₹1,250, Southeast and East Asia from ₹1,600, UK and Europe from ₹1,900, US and Canada from ₹2,100, Australia and New Zealand from ₹2,200. Duties and local taxes are payable by you on delivery. Somewhere else? WhatsApp us and we'll quote it.
How long will my order take?
We dispatch within 2–4 business days. In India, standard shipping (₹100, free over ₹2,500) arrives 3–5 business days after dispatch; express (₹250) arrives in 1–2 business days, where available. International: 4–7 business days to South Asia, 5–8 to the Gulf, 6–10 to Southeast and East Asia, 7–12 elsewhere.
Do you offer cash on delivery?
No. All orders are prepaid — UPI, cards or net banking.
How will I know when my order has shipped?
You'll receive a tracking link by email and WhatsApp as soon as it leaves us.
Exchanges
Can I return my order?
We don't accept returns or give refunds for a change of mind, because every piece is handmade and most are one of one. We're happy to exchange.
How do exchanges work?
Request an exchange within 7 days of delivery. The piece must be unworn, unwashed, with tags and original packaging. Choose another piece or take store credit for the full value. Within India we arrange pickup; a ₹150 reverse-pickup fee applies. On international orders we can't arrange a pickup — message us within 7 days and we'll issue store credit once the piece reaches us; return shipping and duties are yours. WhatsApp us on +91 8796711007 or email shopatgul@gmail.com with your order number.
What can't be exchanged?
Sale pieces, custom or made-to-order pieces, and anything worn, washed or altered.
What if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?
Message us within 48 hours of delivery with photos. We'll collect it free and send a replacement, or refund you in full if we can't replace it.
Full details: Shipping & Exchanges.
Custom Orders
Do you take custom orders?
Yes, for select pieces and in limited quantities. Custom orders typically take 3 to 6 weeks depending on the craft and artisan availability.
What can be customised?
Size, colour palette (within what the dye process allows), and in some cases the print or embroidery. WhatsApp us to discuss what is possible.
Are custom orders exchangeable?
No. Custom orders are made specifically for you and are final sale.
Care
How do I wash my Gul piece?
Hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent, unless the product page says dry clean. Do not machine wash, wring, bleach, or dry in direct sunlight. Full instructions are in our Care Guide.
Will the colour fade?
Natural and hand-dyed colours soften over time with washing. Dry in shade to keep colour longest.
Is some colour bleeding in the first wash normal?
Yes, especially with indigo. It stops after the first one or two washes. Wash separately the first time.