Craftsmanship
HAND EMBROIDERY
Hand Embroidery is known as the crafts of the two hands.
Embroidery in India became popular in the 16th century with each state having their own unique method of embroidery which show the rich, vibrant and traditional crafts that have been practiced and developed over many centuries.
The process of hand embroidery used in Xaura clothing is called Aari embroidery which uses the finest pen like needle to pierced holes along the lines of the design to create intricate patterns. Firstly, the fabric is tied to two sides of a wooden frame (khaat) using thick cords and is stretched out. Then the pattern of embroidery is copied and transferred on a tracing paper which is placed on the fabric (Chapaayi) and rubbed with a white paste of chalk, making the design appear on the fabric. The threads of silk are then embroidered on the fabric with a lot of patience and precision.
HAND BLOCK PRINTING
The art of hand block printing technique was created somewhere as early as 3000 BC and flourished in India around 12th century in the era of Maharajas (royalty’s). The designs are meticulously carved by skilled craftsmen on the wooden block which has to be soaked in oil for around a fortnight to soften the fine particles in the timber. The block also has a handle which is dipped in the colour and block pressed down on the fabric simultaneously to form repeat patterns and is quite transcending to watch. The blocks vary from 1 – 3 for 1 pattern depending on the colours required. The fabric is then dried and then steamed and washed and sun dried and ironed to prepare for stitching. Such a unique and beautiful technique.
