Thread Work from different regions of India

India has always been recognized for its rich culture and traditions. It is a country which is the birthplace of many regional art forms. Thread and needle work is one such artwork, which has emerged from different regions of India. The Indian uses different materials and different designs, making it easy to identify the region to which the embroidery work belongs to. Most of the stitches and threads in these embroidery works are the traditional designs and ethnic patterns. Though the original work is done by craftsmen using thread and needle, but these days they are resorting to machinery work to meet the growing demand.

Lucknow- A city of contrasts

The famous Zardozi work is a thread work, using the metallic thread making it tedious for the craftsmen. The craftsmen work with elaborate designs on the fabric with golden and silver thread and further adorn it by adding embellishments of precious stones and pearls to give it a heavy look. Such a kind of thread work is often seen in the dresses of Indian brides for their weddings.  The Zardozi work is mostly manufactured in areas near Lucknow . Apart from Zardozi work, Lucknow is also famous for its fine thread work known as Chikankari. Though it started as a white on white embroidery, but the craftsmen are seen to experiment with the art and you can find the work on any colour with contrasting thread work.  It is a delicate form of artwork is done on different fabrics ranging from muslin to silk. It uses thread work and stiches like chain stich, backstitch, hemstitch etc.

Originating from the regions of Punjab, Phulkari is a thread work which is famous for its colourful patterns and designs where phul means flower. The designs which are scattered on the fabric are known as phulkari and the ones where the whole fabric is covered with the embroidery are known as bagh. They are mostly worn by women during the weddings and special occasions. The common trait of phulkari is that silken coloured thread is used on the other side of the cloth using a darn stitch. Phulkari dupattas and shawls are very famous throughout the country. The bright colours of red, orange and yellow are very common when it comes to Phulkari work.

Heavy embroidery Work

Kutch thread work is easy to identify because of its rich and heavy designs. A thread work from Gujarat, Kutch work is all about vibrant colours, extensive thread work, mirrors and beads, embellishments, etc. The patterns of Kutch work on the fabrics are done with silken thread and it draws its creativity from the motifs related to various aspects of human life. The famous Gujarati Ghaghra Choli is often designed with Kutch work. Another unique thread work Kashidakaari of Jammu and Kashmir is a colourful form of needlework and the craftsmen often look up to the nature as an inspiration for the designs. The work is done using crystal threads on the fabric. Pashmina shawls are often embroidered with Kashidaakari and the motifs are made in such a way that the design appears same on both the side with different colours.