Khamma Ghani Shimmering Elephant Patchwork Cotton Cushion Covers

Is the base of this cover cool or warm in tone?

The ground is a pale blue-grey, which is cool and calm. The elephants pictured bring in warmth with orange and red patches alongside purple and violet, so the cover balances cool and warm in one piece and works with either kind of room.

How is it made?

It is Kantha patchwork, handmade in Barmer. Pieces of fabric are cut and sewn together to form a large elephant with a decorated howdah, then outlined with stitching and finished with small mirror accents.

Which rooms suit it?

Its pale ground suits a bedroom, a study or a living room with white, grey or blue walls. Place it on a light sofa or a bed with plain linen, and the purple and orange elephant becomes the main point of colour.

How do I keep it clean?

Hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent, and do not use bleach on it. Once it is rinsed, dry it flat in the shade rather than hanging it up in harsh sunlight.

What size filler should I buy?

The cover is 16x16 inches, so it needs a 16-inch square filler. A well-stuffed filler keeps the patchwork smooth and shows the full elephant and its decorated howdah clearly when the cushion sits on a sofa.

Can I gift it?

Yes, it is a lovely handmade gift for anyone who enjoys craft-led décor and a touch of colour on the sofa. It is made by a women's self-help group in Barmer, so it carries the story of the women who stitched it.