The Art of Chikankari: How It's Done and What Makes It Unique

Introduction:

Chikankari is a traditional embroidery style that comes from Lucknow a city in Uttar Pradesh India. This art form has been an important part of Indian craftsmanship for many years. The beautiful and detailed work in Chikankari has been passed down from generation to generation. Each stitch in Chikankari tells a unique story.

History of Chikankari:

Chikankari has its roots in the Mughal era when it was supported by the Mughal courts. The word Chikankari comes from the Persian words 'chikan' which means embroidery. Over time Chikankari became a special art form with its own modern techniques patterns and design.

Techniques of Chikankari:

Chikankari is a laborious process requiring skill and patience. Various stitches like satin, stem, and french knot are used for embroidery. Typically, white or off-white fabric is utilized, with intricate designs created using thread.

The process of Chikankari involves several stages including:

Fabric Cutting:

The fabric is pre-washed and smoothed, followed by precise measurements for the perfect fit. Patterns are accurately marked and the fabric is cut precisely. Each piece undergoes quality checks for accuracy before labeling and storage, ensuring our high crafting standards are met.

Fabric Stitching:

Cut fabric pieces assembled, ensuring perfect fit before stitching. Skilled tailors sew with high-quality techniques. Details like pockets and side slits added. Kurti undergoes quality inspection, then sent for block printing. Each step ensures flawless Chikankari kurti.

Block Printing:

This process involves intricate patterns carved onto wooden blocks. These blocks are then dipped in dye and stamped onto the fabric. Following this, artisans add Chikankari embroidery to create a unique, beautifully crafted kurti.

Embroidery:

Fabric is carefully prepared and stretched on an embroidery frame before artisans design and hand-stitch intricate Chikankari patterns. The process takes 2-4 days for short kurtis, 4-7 days for long kurtis, and up to 35 days for sarees or lehengas. Each piece is crafted meticulously by skilled artisans from Lucknow, ensuring every stitch conveys a narrative.

Washing:

The kurtis are sorted and prepped before being hand washed using traditional methods to protect the Chikankari embroidery. Post washing, they are air-dried, ironed, and inspected. A final quality check guarantees each kurti meets our stringent standards before shipment.

Quality Check:

This process begin by sizing each kurti for perfect fit across all sizes. Inspect Chikankari embroidery for imperfections, checking loose threads, uneven stitches, fabric defects. Flaws fixed with keel motifs for sustainability. Label kurti with size, care instructions, and pack carefully. Final inspection ensures kurti is ready to impress. Each step guarantees Chikankari kurti arrives fabulous!

 

What Makes Chikankari Unique:

Intricate designs: 

 

Chikankari is famous for its detailed designs and patterns, made using different types of stitches.

Use of white thread:

 

Traditionally, Chikankari is done with white thread on white fabric, giving a beautiful and subtle look.

Regional motifs:

 

Chikankari includes local designs and patterns, like the bel flower and the jaali pattern.

Handmade:

Chikankari is a handmade craft, and each garment can take several days or even weeks to finish.

Artisans:

Artisans are skilled workers who make things by hand using old and traditional methods. Their work shows the culture and history of their community. It takes a lot of skill and care to create these handmade items.

Sustainable:

Sustainable means something that is good for the environment and lasts a long time. It is the way of using natural resources in the right way. 

 

Conclusion:

Chikankari is a traditional form of embroidery that has been a part of Indian craftsmanship for centuries. Its detailed designs, use of white thread, and regional patterns make it a unique and beautiful art form. As we continue to appreciate and promote this traditional craft, we must also make sure that the artisans who create these beautiful garments receive the recognition and support they deserve.