Why Does Care Matter for a Hand-Embroidered Abaya?
A hand-embroidered abaya is not just a garment — it is a piece of craftsmanship. Each stitch is placed by hand, making every piece genuinely unique. Because of this, hand-embroidered abayas require more careful handling than everyday garments. The right care routine will keep the embroidery vibrant, the fabric pristine, and the abaya looking beautiful for years to come.
This guide covers everything you need to know about washing, drying, storing, and maintaining a hand-embroidered abaya — based on the care requirements of the Malaika Hand-Embroidered Abaya collection by Hazal Studios, crafted from premium Korean crepe.
Can You Machine Wash a Hand-Embroidered Abaya?
Machine washing is strongly not recommended for hand-embroidered abayas. The agitation of a washing machine can pull, distort, or unravel delicate embroidery threads — causing irreversible damage to the stitching. Even a gentle cycle carries risk.
The safest washing method is always hand washing.
How to Hand Wash a Hand-Embroidered Abaya
- Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water — never hot water, which can shrink Korean crepe and loosen embroidery threads
- Add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral detergent — specifically formulated for delicate fabrics
- Submerge the abaya and gently agitate — use your hands to softly move the fabric through the water. Do not scrub, wring, or twist.
- Pay extra attention to the embroidered areas — gently press water through rather than rubbing
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all detergent is removed
- Gently press out excess water — never wring or twist the fabric
How to Dry a Hand-Embroidered Abaya
- Never tumble dry — heat and agitation will damage both the Korean crepe fabric and the embroidery
- Lay flat to dry on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight
- Reshape while damp — gently smooth the fabric and embroidery back into shape before leaving to dry
- Avoid hanging while wet — the weight of wet fabric can stretch and distort the silhouette
How to Iron a Hand-Embroidered Abaya
- Always iron on the reverse side of the fabric — never directly on the embroidery
- Use a low to medium heat setting appropriate for delicate fabrics
- Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric for extra protection
- For stubborn creases, use a garment steamer held at a distance — this is the safest method for embroidered pieces
How to Store a Hand-Embroidered Abaya
- Hang on a padded hanger to maintain the silhouette — avoid wire hangers that can distort the shoulders
- Store in a breathable garment bag to protect from dust without trapping moisture
- Keep away from direct sunlight — prolonged UV exposure can fade both the fabric and embroidery threads
- Avoid overcrowding in the wardrobe — give the abaya space so the embroidery is not crushed
What to Do if Embroidery Threads Come Loose
If a thread becomes loose, do not pull it. Instead, use a needle to carefully tuck it back through to the reverse side of the fabric and secure it gently. For significant damage, consult a professional seamstress or tailor experienced with embroidered garments.
Summary: Hand-Embroidered Abaya Care Essentials
- Always hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent — never machine wash
- Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight — never tumble dry
- Iron on the reverse side with a pressing cloth, or use a steamer
- Store on a padded hanger in a breathable garment bag
- Handle loose threads carefully — tuck rather than pull
Explore the Malaika Hand-Embroidered Abaya collection at Hazal Studios — available in blush pink, mint green, and mousse brown.