Mancala Lumbar Pillow Cover - Charcoal Block Print

Since 1997, Alamwar has worked to keep India's textile traditions alive, a heritage that stretches back to 2500 BC. Its founder and design director, Viji Reddy, is an award-winning artist whose lifelong devotion to handmade textiles shapes all of her creative work, and her younger sister, Archi Reddy, leads the company as president and CEO.

Alamwar draws on the heritage of India's Deccan Plateau, where hand-printed and hand-painted fabrics once made for royalty came to be known as chintz and paisley, and it still keeps an archive of hand-carved wooden blocks. It uses botanical dyes and azo-free alternatives, and it says it follows the principles of slow textiles and produces in small batches. Viji also partners with an Indian NGO that empowers women in rural communities through embroidery and handwork.

In Viji's own workshops in India, a dedicated team of artisans brings her designs to life, and the sisters have opened a new Design Center in Hyderabad. For more than two decades, Alamwar has offered pillows, throws, quilts and other soft goods for the home, and its Resort Boho-Chic fashion collection is sold in boutiques across the United States and the Caribbean.

• Natural linen exterior fabric
• Cotton lining
• Natural charcoal dyes
• Hand embroidered cotton thread
• Hidden metal zipper closure

• Size: 15 x 28 inches lumbar pillow cover
• Cotton lined construction
• Hidden zipper closure
• Insert not included
• Handmade in India

• Fair Trade certified production
• Handmade artisan crafted
• Natural dye process
• Ethically sourced materials

• Cold machine wash separately on delicate cycle with minimal mild liquid detergent
• Do not dry clean, tumble dry, soak or bleach
• Iron at medium setting if necessary
• For spot cleaning, gently dab with water without rubbing
• Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent excessive fading
• Natural variations in color and pattern are normal for hand-printed fabrics

Q: What makes this pillow cover different from machine-printed options?
A: Each cover is hand block printed using traditional carved wooden blocks, creating authentic variations and depth that machine printing cannot replicate, plus hand embroidered details add extra artisan character.

Q: Is the pillow insert included with this cover?
A: No, this is a pillow cover only with a hidden zipper closure designed to fit a 15 x 28 inch lumbar pillow insert.

Q: How do I care for hand block printed linen?
A: Cold machine wash separately on delicate cycle with minimal mild detergent, avoid direct sunlight, and never bleach or tumble dry to preserve the natural dyes and fabric integrity.

Q: What is the Mancala pattern inspired by?
A: The Mancala design draws inspiration from traditional African art and textiles, reimagined through Indian block printing techniques for a modern yet timeless aesthetic.

Q: Are the charcoal dyes natural?
A: Yes, the charcoal coloring uses natural dye processes that are part of traditional Indian textile crafting methods passed down through generations.

Q: How long does shipping take for this handmade item?
A: Items in stock ship immediately, while out-of-stock pieces require 4-6 weeks as they are crafted to order by artisan hands.

Q: What does fair trade mean for this product?
A: Fair trade certification ensures the artisans receive fair wages and work in safe conditions, while supporting rural communities and preserving traditional textile crafts.

The Maker’s Circle represents the heart of what we believe in. Our 10 guiding values reflect how we curate, connect, and celebrate the people behind the goods within our slow living community. These are the values our makers strive for.

1. Slow Living Values – Purpose driven, intentional creation
2. Transparent Sourcing – Honest origins and clear practices
3. Safe Materials – Non toxic, body safe, and eco friendly
4. Small Batch Crafted – Made in limited quantities with care
5. Handmade Quality – Human touch and artisan skill in every detail
6. Timeless Craftsmanship – Enduring beauty and thoughtful function
7. Ethical Production – Fair labor and responsible practices
8. Sustainable Practices – Respect for nature at every stage
9. Positive Energy – Made with love, gratitude, and good intention
10. Conscious Packaging – Minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable materials

Each item ships directly from the maker’s workshop or studio. You may receive multiple packages, each crafted and packed by the artisans themselves.

We want you to love what you ordered, but we understand returns happen. Most items can be returned within 30 days if unused and in original condition. Some makers have unique return policies, which we honor respectfully.

See full details here: Refund Policy

HEALTH DISCLAIMER: The Ever Good is not a healthcare provider and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Product details and ingredient information are provided by the makers, and The Ever Good is not responsible for their claims. Our guiding values are for general inspiration and selection purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any health-related concerns.