Exquisitely
embroidered shawls created by the finest traditional shawl weavers has
won accolades by the admirers of intricate embroidery patterns. These
subtly sophisticated, luxury shawls are procured to be treasured for
years to come whether collected for personal enjoyment or received as a
gift. These shawls of unique beauty, hand embroidered with inspired
creativity and impeccable craftsmanship adds great value to the
wardrobe. Warm and elegant, these shawls are very popular among women of
all ages around the world.
Embroidery Patterns
Inspired by this tradition of glamor, a range of embroidered shawls are
available with exuberant designs. The patterns, whether traditional or
trendy, are unique and eye-catching. Exquisite fabric is used like
acrylic, pure wool, cashmere wool, cashmere and pashmina silk, cotton or
a blend of these fabrics.
Types of Embroidery
Phulkari (flower work) Embroidery :
Multi-colored shawls are crafted using the traditional phulkari (flower
work) embroidery. Phulkari is used to decorate the plain woolen ones.
Embroidered with soft untwisted silk floss and using darning stitches
done from the back, each stitch being about a quarter of an inch in
length, the phulkari shawls often had different ends, in different
designs. The phulkari embroidery covered almost the entire length and
breadth of the shawl, giving it a rich appearance.
Kasida : The embroidery of Kashmir,
called kasida, is world-famous. Varied, rich in colour, elaborate in
detail and exquisite in execution, the kasida patterns are freely drawn
by the naqqash mostly from memory. The finest kasida work, particularly
embroidered on shawls, has no 'wrong' side.
Sozni : 'Sozni' (needlework) is generally
done in a panel along the sides of the shawl. Motifs, usually abstract
designs or stylized paisleys and flowers are worked in one or two, and
occasionally three subdued colors. The stitch employed is not unlike
stem stitch, and only the outline of the design is embroidered.
Papier Mache : Another type of needle
embroidery is popularly known as 'papièr mâchè' work
because of the design and the style in which it is executed. This is
done either in broad panels on either side along the breadth of a shawl,
or covering the entire surface of the breadth of a shawl or that of a
stole. Flowers and leaves are worked in chain stitch in bright colors
such as those of papier-mache and each motif is then outlined in black.
Aari or Hook : A third type of embroidery
is Aari or hook embroidery. Motifs here are the well-known flower design
finely worked in concentric rings of chain stitch.
