Embroidered Shawls

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.