Traditional Indian Embroideries Notes
Subject Overview
Traditional Indian Embroideries introduces students to the origin, history, technique, colours, motifs and social/
Subject at a glance
2
Units
14
Topics
2
Credits
2
Infographics
Unit-wise Syllabus
2 units — open any unit for detailed topic-wise notes, diagrams and important exam questions
- Origin
- technique
- colours
- motifs
- layouts
- religious/social/economic importance of Kantha
- Phulkari and Kashida embroidery
- with prototype sample development
Kantha
West Bengal, Odisha
Running stitch on layered old saris
Phulkari
Punjab
Darn stitch in silk floss on khaddar
Kashida
Kashmir
Chain and satin stitch: flora, birds
Study guide
This unit studies Kantha, Phulkari and Kashida: their origin, technique, colours, motifs, layouts and cultural importance, with prototype samples. Phulkari is closely tied to Punjab, so you can see local heritage in your own region.
- Origin
- technique
- colours
- motifs and significance of Kutch and Chikankari embroidery
- prototype sample development
- field visit to a craft museum or exhibition
Region
Gujarat
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Look
Bright colours, mirror work
White-on-white, delicate
Stitches
Chain, interlacing, mirror work
Shadow work, bakhia, phanda, jaali
Fabric
Cotton, silk
Muslin, cotton, georgette
Study guide
You study Kutch embroidery and Chikankari: origin, technique, colours, motifs and significance, with prototype samples and a field visit to a craft museum or exhibition. Document what you see with sketches and photographs.
Why Traditional Indian Embroideries Matters
Knowledge of Indian embroidery is valuable for designers, craft entrepreneurs and export houses, and Indian crafts have strong global demand.
How to Prepare for Traditional Indian Embroideries
- Make a sample of each embroidery and note its stitch, motif and colour.
- Visit a craft exhibition and speak to artisans.
- Document each craft with research and your own samples.
Traditional Indian Embroideries: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Phulkari?
Phulkari is a traditional embroidery of Punjab, made with brightly coloured silk threads in geometric and floral patterns.