Potli Bags: Handmade Drawstring Pouches

Start with the occasion, because a potli is a small drawstring pouch built for dressy moments, not daily errands. For a bride or wedding guest, look at the fabric first: raw silk, brocade, and velvet hold their round shape, while dupion silk and art silk drape softer. Embellishment is where the price lives. Plain silk or sequined potlis run light; zardozi, dabka, gota patti, kundan, and bead-and-mirror work cost more and add weight. Check the size, since a tiny 5-6 inch potli barely fits a phone and lipstick, while a 7-9 inch one holds keys, cards, and a compact. Look at the drawstring and tassels, the closure most likely to fray, and confirm whether the lining is satin or cotton. Expect roughly $12-$30 for a plain or sequined potli, $30-$70 for embroidered silk or brocade, and $80-$180+ for heavy zardozi or bridal sets. Many makers ship in-stock potlis in 3-7 business days; custom colors and bulk favor orders run 1-3 weeks.

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