Handicrafts India

Embroidery has always been an art of stitches that tends to decorate even a simple piece of cloth. And when it comes to talking about Chikankari work, all we know is the culmination of finesse. The Chikankari style of embroidery is quite famous for its delicacy and intricate designs. It is an art of decorating cloth piece with high attention as it requires complicated weaving. In the earlier times, the base cloth used for embroidery was muslin. Today, the weavers have started using cotton, chiffon, georgette and numerous other fine fabrics. This has enabled them to explore various new designs and patterns.

Now days, flat stitches (close to the fabric), embossed stitches (grainy appearance), cut work and jail work (net effect) are a part of weaving styles. All this gives a stylish look to the designer piece, besides having a traditional touch. This process includes six stages – cutting, stitching, printing, embroidery, washing and finishing. Cutting takes place carefully with the garments and layout is done to lessen the wastage. Then, the stitching of the material is done as per layout and printing is completed with wooden block. And finally, it is embroidered before washing and bleaching process. Such kind of embroideries, usually, carries floral motifs.