The Art of Embroidery

We all had needlework lessons in school, which we very reluctantly learned. Embroidery is one of the many forgotten lessons from school, but more than that it is an ancient form which has persisted till date thanks to people with passion and skill for the art. Generally yarn or thread is used for embroidery, but metal strips, pearls, beads, quills and sequins are also incorporated. Besides this the biggest quality of embroidery is that it is one art form that has always stayed in the fashion. Techniques that were practiced ages ago like chain stitch, blanket stitch (buttonhole), running stitch, satin stitch and cross stitch still remain the basis for hand embroidery.  

This art form has been in existence for centuries. In fact, embroidery can be traced back to the 3^rd century. The process used to tailor, patch, mend and reinforce cloth fostered the development of sewing techniques and the decorative possibilities of sewing led to the art of embroidery. The industrial revolution led to the invention of machines, and this proved to be a slow but steady boost for the art form. 

In India the styles and techniques for embroidery keep switching from region to region, giving it diverse forms. Designs are formed on the basis of the texture of the fabric and the stitch. The circle, the square, the dots and the alternate dot, the triangle and the combinations of these make up the design.

Zardosi Embroidery 

One of the most elaborate and tiresome kind of embroidery is the Zardosi. Here metallic threads are used over the usual silk or rayon. The fabric, silk and velvet are generally used, on which the pattern is marked by the craftsman and embroidered with metallic thread and stones and beads are embellished. Another well known style in India is the Ari work that is done by stretching the fabric on a frame and stitching with a long needle. This also holds sequins, beads and most other embellishment. 

                   

Chikan 

Phulkari 

   

There is Kashmiri embroidery, Chikan from Lucknow and Phulkari from Punjab region are just few. 

English Crewelwork

Embroidery as an art form has its presences in all cultures at all times, from England to Japan, and every other place which makes it a rather broad area of discussion. 

Japanese Kimono Embroidery 

Someone pursuing a career in fashion should be well aware about the different kinds and techniques of embroidery. Taking this very idea into consideration, the Whistling Woods Neeta Lulla School of Fashion organized an Embroidery workshop which was conducted by an acclaimed embroidery artisan, Mr. Izhar. He helped students understand the different mediums and technique of embroidery. The students not only gained knowledge but also had gala time learning more about this age-old art that still has so much to offer in this day and age.