The small town of Pedana, about 8 km north of Machilipatnam, is the centre of the block-print style of Kalamkari that Machilipatnam is known for. Artisans here use carved wooden blocks and natural plant-based dyes to print elaborate patterns on cotton — floral designs, geometric borders, and scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana rendered in earthy reds, blues, and greens.
Visiting a workshop is entirely possible and usually welcomed. You can watch the entire process from cloth preparation to the final wash and watch how the colours emerge only after the fabric is rinsed. The finished textiles — sarees, salwar fabric, wall hangings, and dress material — are sold directly and are far cheaper here than in city boutiques. The Sri Lakshminarayana Weaving Centre is among the better-known workshops. Most shops are open from around 9am to 6pm.