KANTHA EMBROIDERY
Traditional Kantha Embroidery Is A Traditional Folk Art Of Bengal And Was Significantly Used In Kantha Quilt. The Craft Revived Worn-Out Textiles Or Rags As New. The Embroidery Not Only Depicts Kantha Stitch & Designs But Also Expresses Creativity, Patience, Imagination & The Craftsmanship Of The Common Bengali Woman. We Are Now Working With A Cluster Of Kantha Artisans Situated In The Birbhum District Of Bengal To Produce Beautiful Kantha Embroidered Fabrics.
THE KANTHA PROCESS
What is Kantha Stitching?
Kantha fabrics, or kantha stitch, originated in the homes of common folks of Bengal & is perhaps the simplest form of embroidery. And in spite of its simplicity has a rich and elegant look. Traditionally Kantha was embroidered on old layered cloth with "running stitch pattern", drawn out of the borders of old sarees. It usually depicted some stories of daily life, folk stories, epics, mythological background, ritualistic motifs, luxurious vegetation with roaming animals etc. The entire layered cloth was covered with running stitches resulting in a slightly wrinkled effect.
HISTORY
Kantha embroidery is an ancient craft, originating from India and was majorly found in West Bengal. The traditional folk art was popular in Bengal & the word itself meant ‘Patched Cloth’, and has been especially used in quilting since its early days. In fact, it is believed that the word Kantha is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘kontha’ meaning rugs. The thought behind this needlework was to reuse old clothes and materials and turn them into something new. Kantha embroidery designs were practiced by people from all social background. This is what makes Kantha stitch history one of its kind.
HOW IS KANTHA EMBROIDERY DONE- STEP 1: DESIGN CREATION
The first step in Kantha embroidery is creating the design. The design is usually drawn on a piece of cloth or paper. It can be a simple geometric pattern or a complex motif.
STEP 2: TRACING
Once the design is finalized, it is transferred onto the fabric using a tracing method. This can be done by placing the design on top of the fabric and using a tracing tool to transfer the pattern.
STEP 3: EMBROIDERY STITCHES
The most commonly used stitch in Kantha embroidery is the running stitch. This stitch is worked along the design lines to create the desired pattern. After the outline is complete, the design is filled with more running stitches.
(If several layers are to be stitched together, the layers are first held together using simple darning stitch)
TYPES OF STITCHES
Running stitch: They are subdivided into Nakshi (figured) and par tola (patterned). Nakshi kanthas are further divided into motif or scenic.
Lohori Kantha: Kantha design popular in Rajshahi. These kanthas are further divided into soja (straight or simple), Kautar khupi (pigeon coop or triangle), borfi (diamond)
Lik or anarasi: Kantha found in the Chapainawabganj and Jessore areas. The variations are lik tan, lik tile, lik jhumka, and lik lohori.
Cross-stitch or carpet: Kantha introduced by the English during the British Rule in India. The stitch used in this Kanthas is the cross-stitch.
Sujni Kantha: This type of baal is found only in Rajshahi area. The popular motif used is the undulating floral and vine motif.
PROGRESSION OF KANTHA EMBROIDERY
Kantha was invented out of basic necessity and was made of various sizes and layers. Today, Kantha stitch design fabric is used to ornament different products like clothing, homeware, accessories, and so on.
Our collection of Kantha embroidered fabrics includes fabrics adorned with geometric motifs in unconventional patterns using running and cross-stitch. These embroideries are done by artisans from an all-female artisanal cluster in Bengal.
IS KANTHA EMBROIDERY SUSTAINABLE?
The Kantha patchwork embroidery is a sustainable technique because it doesn't require much power or raw materials to produce. It just requires minimal resources like water and electricity. Besides this, the only thing needed to make this art form happen are some tools and materials like cotton threads, needles, scissors, thread spools and old clothes. The process can be done by anyone with basic sewing skills who has access to these items.
The techniques used in this process are designed to involve waste fabric recycling as an input, which means that the process can be repeated again and again. This way old fabric are upcycled into repurposed clothing or something new..
frequently asked questions
What types of fabric are commonly used for Kantha embroidery?
Kantha embroidery is often done on lightweight fabrics like cotton, silk, and muslin. The choice of fabric depends on the intended use of the Kantha piece, whether it's a quilt, a saree, or clothing.
What are the common applications of Kantha embroidered fabrics?
Kantha embroidery is used in various applications, including quilts, bedspreads, blankets, sarees, scarves, shawls, pillow covers, and clothing items like blouses, dresses, and kurtas.
What care tips should be followed to preserve Kantha embroidered fabrics?
To maintain Kantha embroidered fabrics, it's advisable to hand wash them gently in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric. After washing, air drying is preferable to prevent damage to the stitches and designs.
Can Kantha embroidered fabrics be customized with specific designs or color schemes?
Yes, we offer customization options for Kantha embroidered fabrics. Our team of talented artisans will collaborate with you to craft unique designs and embroidery that align with your specific preferences and demands.
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