Chikankari is a design of embroidery created centuries ago in Lucknow but it is not just a mode of fashion rather an elegance written on stitches. Traditionally used by artisan with skills on muslin and cotton fabrics, but new to the DIY enthusiasts who want to make their own clothes, home decor element as well as products of accessories with their unique touch.
Imagine you went to a clothes store and fell in love with the exquisite floral stitching of Chikankari but you found it difficult to design and do them on your own, well this blog will be your ideal start.
What is Chikankari?
Chikankari is a hand embroidery work which arose using white embroidery on softweight of filmy material such as cotton, georgette and chiffon. Its motifs are natural, florals, paisleys, vines, and Mughal architecture.
More than 40 types of stitches are used in this classic embroidery like:
Shadow work (Bakhiya)
Phanda (Knot stitch)
Murri (Grain-shaped stitch)
Jaali (Netting)
Keel Kangan (Trellis pattern)
DIY Chikankari: What You’ll Need
First things first though, you will need the following before you embark:
Any light fabric (white cotton or muslin works very well when you are starting)
White embroidery thread (or any pastel shade which you like)
Embroidery needle
Embroidery hoop
Pencil or marker pen
Floral stencil/sketch sketch
Step-by-Step Chikankari DIY Guide
1. Pick Your Style
Begin with a small format, a flowering vine, a clump of foliage or a paisley. The pattern can either be drawn free or by stencil.
2. Make It Ready Your Fabric
Put the fabric in the embroidery hoop taut. This assist in maintaining the tension even during stitching.
3. Start Stitching
When you have to learn the simplest stitch, take Running Stitch or Back Stitch to follow the design. Then slowly give Phanda (knot), Bakhiya (to create shadow effects) and Jaali provided you are confident.
4. Remain Calm and Constant
Chikankari is labour intensive, and reflective. Don’t rush. Employ one motif at a-time, and then have your stitches evenly sized.
Creative DIY Ideas with Chikankari
Here are some cool ways to use your handmade Chikankari pieces:
Decorative Cushion Covers
Tote Bags or Pouches
Handmade Kurtis or Dupattas
Framed Wall Art
Table Runners or Placemats
Why Try Chikankari DIY?
1Cultural affiliation: Pick up an ancient tradition and admire the history behind it.
Custom designs: Design what you own.
Sustainable fashion: The garments are hand-embroidered, which encourages slow fashion.
Stress relieving activity: As is always said of any needlework, Chikankari also aids in relieving stress and enhances concentration.
Final Thoughts
Chikankari DIY is not actually about making something beautiful but it is really about being encompassed in a form of tradition that had been inherited through generations. The art of Chikankari enhances a sense of sophistication and eternity whether you are decorating your house, preparing a gift, or even making a garment out of an old outfit. Hold your needle and crack your thread and make your imagination run-one stitch at a time.
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