Nakshi kantha

Types of nakshi kantha

A nakshi kantha is an embroidered quilt made from old sarees and other pieces of cloth. It showcases the artistry of rural women in Bengali folk. There are several types of Nakshi Kantha, each with its unique characteristics and purposes:

• Durjani Kantha

  This is a strong Kantha stitch and is referred to as the running stitch. The Kantha stitches are sewn nearer to each other. This makes the quilt strong and durable. This kind of quilt lasts for a long time. Sometimes, the stitches are sewn in a criss-cross manner too.

• Lukhon Kantha

  As the name suggests, these quilts are made for the rich people of Bangladesh. The lukhon kantha has more elaborate and detailed stitching compared to other types of kantha. The stitches are smaller and closer together, forming delicate patterns. This type of kantha can take a long time to make because it is so fine. It uses better quality fabrics and often shows beautiful designs that tell stories through their pictures. Since it uses nice fabric and takes longer, it costs more money than other kinds of kantha quilts. If someone wants a very pretty and well-made quilt that shows traditional sewing skills, lukhon kantha is a good choice.

• Lohori Kantha

  These are traditional quilts that are gifted to newly married women in India. Lohri Kantha is given as part of the bridal package when someone gets married. It symbolizes warmth, love, and new beginnings for the bride. Since lohri kantha is meant for young brides, it often has bright colors and lively patterns. It may include pictures of flowers, birds, and happy scenes from nature. The embroidery tells a story about the new wife's hopes and dreams for her future family life. These quilts also provide good insulation during cold weather. People believe lohri kanthas bring good luck and happiness to the newly married couple's home. They are made with care to last a long time and keep the tradition of welcoming brides very meaningful and memorable.

• Shorashori Kantha

  Shorashori kantha quilts are special because they use many different kinds of stitching all together. The word "shorashori" means "all kinds" or "various". So this type of kantha includes a variety of traditional needlework styles from Bangladesh. Some parts may have simple running stitches like other kanthas, but there are also cross stitches, floral designs, and other regional favorites mixed in. One shorashori kantha can show how flexible and creative the sewers were by combining so many methods into one beautiful quilt. Since it borrows from different techniques, shorashori kanthas represent the diversity and richness of sewing arts across the area. These multipurpose blankets can be used for keeping warm, as bedding, or even decorative throws while showing off their intricate stitched patterns that celebrate different cultural traditions.

• Sitara Kantha

  Sitara kantha quilts shine and sparkle because they are decorated with small mirror pieces. These mirrors, called "sitara" in Bengali, make the blankets look very lively and eye-catching when sunlight or other lights reflect off them. To create a sitara kantha, skilled sewers carefully attach little bits of glass or plastic mirrors onto the fabric using embroidery stitches. Adding these shiny mirror embellishments livens up the patterns and designs on the quilt, making it appear even more special and festive. Sitara kanthas are often used for celebrations, parties, or other joyful occasions where people want their bedding and blankets to be as decorative and dazzling as possible. The combination of traditional stitching with modern mirrored accents gives these quilts a unique and vibrant beauty that stands out. Whether used as a cover on beds or hung up as wall hangings, sitara kanthas bring fun and flair wherever they are displayed.

Design of Nakshi kantha

• Stitching Style

  Folk Kantha is created using a running stitch that goes through all three layers of fabric. It is made in straight lines and simple motifs. Regular Kantha uses a running stitch to form the shapes. It stitches in straight lines, crosses, and spirals to make more detailed pictures. Border Kantha uses the running stitch to outline each picture. It puts a decorative border around the edge. Moshla Kantha arranges the stitches in a grid pattern. It places the designs at even intervals in each square. Shanta Kantha uses finer stitches to create very detailed images. It stitches small, intricate designs all over the quilt.

• Materials Used

  The materials used in Nakshi Kantha are: 1. Fabric scraps: Old saris and shirts are used as the main fabric. They are reused instead of thrown away. 2. Threads: The threads for stitching come in many colors. Bright or faded colors are chosen depending on the design. 3. Needles: Long sewing needles are used to stitch through all the layers of fabric. 4. Batting: Sometimes, extra soft layers are added in the middle. This makes thicker quilts.

• Color Palette

  Bright Colors: Kantha from villages near Kolkata uses very bright colors. Reds, yellows, greens, and blues stand out clearly. These colors are lively and eye-catching. Faded and Earthy Colors: Kantha from farther villages uses more faded, earthy colors. Olive greens, browns, and dull reds blend in with each other. These colors are softer and more subtle.

• Shapes and Patterns

  Folk Kantha has shapes from nature. Flowers, birds, trees, and animals are common. Boat scenes and village life are also depicted. Each piece tells a story or shows a memory. Traditional motifs are included in Nakshi Kantha. Some common motifs are: 1. The sun - a symbol of life and energy. 2. Flowers - for beauty and nature. 3. Peacocks - grace and pride. 4. Fish - abundance and prosperity. 5. Geometric shapes - for balance and harmony.

Scenarios of nakshi kantha

• Gifts and Special Occasions:

  Gifts kanthas are versatile and hold great cultural and emotional value. They are often gifted on special occasions. They make heartfelt gifts at weddings, newborn baby welcomes, anniversaries, and birthdays. Their handmade nature and personal touches make them gifts that are treasured. For example, a new mother may receive a kantha blanket to keep her baby warm. A newly married couple may get a decorative kantha with stitching depicting lovebirds. These kanthas provide practical comfort. At the same time, they convey the giver's deep feelings of care and celebration.

• Everyday Use:

  While kantha quilts are beautiful works of art, they are also very functional for daily use. Their layered construction from recycled fabrics makes them suitable for everyday life. In homes, people use kantha blankets to stay cozy in colder climates. Their patchwork designs also mean they can be casually draped over furniture. This brings color and texture to living spaces. It's common for families to use kantha bags for carrying items like books. Children often bring stitched bags to school. They serve reliably for years while conveying handmade charm. Whether providing warmth or acting as sturdy companions, kantha quilts and bags seamlessly blend beauty and practicality in people's lives. Their versatility from treasured gifts to everyday essentials demonstrates why these handmade pieces are cherished. They retain cultural significance while meeting modern needs.

• Artistic Expression:

  Each nakshi kantha showcases the individual creativity of its maker. Women express themselves through the motifs and designs they choose to stitch. Some kanthas preserve ancient rural themes. Others reflect contemporary urban visions. This variation occurs because each kantha is shaped by the artist's personal story. Friends also create kantha quilts as communal works. They collaborate to stitch together pieces reflecting shared community bonds. These collective creations document social strength and solidarity. Whether stitched solo or in a group, nakshi kanthas are a canvas for the embroidery artists. They stitch pride in their heritage and sisterhood into every design.

How to choose a Nakshi kantha

• Purpose and Usage:

  When purchasing a Nakshi kantha, consider the purpose and usage. Will it be used as home decor, clothing, or to wrap a loved one? If the intention is to use it as a quilt or shawl, choose a larger size. For wall hang art, select a smaller piece with intricate stitching.

• Design and Patterns:

  Nakshi kantha features unique designs inspired by nature, folklore, and traditional motifs. Choose one with a design that appeals to you and reflects your culture. Take time to examine the stitching quality. A good-quality kantha has close, even stitches that form clear designs. Avoid those with loose or messy stitching.

• Material and Fabric:

  Nakshi kantha is made from different fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen. Cotton is soft and easy to care for, while silk is luxurious and delicate. Pick a fabric based on your taste and how you plan to use the kantha. Keep in mind, the age of the kantha also matters. Older kantha quilts are more fragile and need gentle handling.

• Size and Dimensions:

  Nakshi kantha comes in various sizes, from small wall hangings to large quilts. Decide what size you want based on how you plan to use it. Check the dimensions provided by the seller to ensure it meets your needs.

• Authenticity and Handicraft:

  Seek out sellers who support local artisans and promote authentic handicrafts. By buying original pieces, users can help keep traditional stitching alive and support the artisans' communities. Ask the seller if the kantha was made locally and look for certificates of authenticity if possible.

• Care Instructions:

  Learn about the care instructions for the Nakshi kantha before buying it. Cleaning and storing methods can affect how long it lasts. Ask the seller how to take care of it, especially if it's made of delicate materials like silk.

• Color and Dye:

  Colors play an important role in the appeal of Nakshi kantha. Traditional colors are used, but modern interpretations also include vibrant and pastel shades. When choosing a color, think about how it will go with the existing decor or clothing. Natural dyes are better for the environment and safer for skin contact.

Q&A

Q1: What makes a Nakshi Kantha special?

A1: Nakshi Kantha is special due to its complex designs, cultural symbolism, and the use of vintage fabrics, each piece being a work of history and art in embroidery.

Q2: How can one identify authentic Nakshi Kantha?

A2: Authentic Nakshi Kantha can be identified by its artisanal craftsmanship, use of double running stitch, and sometimes the inclusion of vintage sarees as the base fabric.

Q3: What are the different uses of Nakshi Kantha?

A3: Traditionally, Nakshi Kantha was used as quilts and bedding; its applications have diversified to include fashion and home decor.

Q4: Is there a significance in the colors used in Nakshi Kantha?

A4: Yes, each color and design has a significance, with brighter colors often used for happier occasions and softer hues for serene themes.

Q5: Why is Nakshi Kantha considered eco-friendly?

A5: Nakshi Kantha is eco-friendly because it repurposes old materials, promoting sustainable fashion and reducing waste.