Kantha Embroidery Craftwork & Learning Workshops

About Kantha Embroidery

Kantha embroidery is an indigenous household craft initially practiced by rural women of Bengal and Orissa. It involves layering up soft and worn-out clothes using a simple running stitch with colorful threads. A usual Kantha cloth has a slightly wrinkled and wavy appearance and the designs are identical on both sides. Nevertheless, each piece of Kantha is unique as there are no formal rules and all the elements like color, composition, and techniques depend on the craftsman.

History and Legend

Kantha may owe its name to kontha, the Sanskrit word for rags. The history of Kantha traces back to ancient Bengal, where women would skillfully stitch together layers of old saris and dhotis to create beautiful quilts. Originally, Kantha served as a means of recycling worn-out garments, transforming them into stunning pieces of art. Over time, this craft evolved beyond its utilitarian purpose, becoming a cherished tradition passed down through generations from mother to daughter.

Based on a legend, Prince Siddharta (who later became Mahatma Buddha) was donned only in a ‘chhinna Kantha’ or tattered Kantha, when he left his home in search of ultimate truth. The great thinker and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore also wrote about this incident in his poem Ebar Phirao Morey.

Technique

Kantha embroidery encompasses a wide range of products, including sarees, dupattas, quilts, and wall hangings. The identity of Kantha embroidery lies in its distinctive running stitch, known as "Kantha stitch." Traditionally, this stitch is executed by hand using a fine needle and colorful threads. The artisans skillfully create intricate patterns and motifs, ranging from floral designs to geometric shapes, using variations of the basic running stitch. The choice of material often reflects the regional variations within Kantha craft, with each region showcasing its distinct motifs and color palettes.

FAQs

Can I customize Kantha embroidery items?

Yes, we offer customization options for Kantha products. Please contact our customer service for more details.

What makes Kantha embroidery unique?

Kantha's uniqueness lies in its storytelling through stitches, blending traditional techniques with contemporary designs for a timeless appeal.

Are there workshops available to learn Kantha embroidery?

Yes, MeMeraki offers occasional workshops and online masterclasses to learn the art of Kantha embroidery. Check our website for updates.

Highlights of Kantha Embroidery Artform

Artform	Kantha Embroidery
Origin
Materials Used
Colours Used
Popular Themes
Price Range
Artists
Making Process	Handmade

Kantha Embroidery

Threads of Bengal in Kantha by Mahamaya Sikdar

Artist - Mahamaya Sikdar

A Celebration of Nature and Life in Kantha by Mahamaya Sikdar

Artist - Mahamaya Sikdar

Fishes in Kantha by Mahamaya Sikdar

Artist - Mahamaya Sikdar

KANTHA MASTERCLASS (ON DEMAND, PRE-RECORDED, SELF PACED)

Instructor - Mahamaya Sikdar

Jagannath Rath Yatra in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Lord Buddha in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Bird in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Krishna Leelas in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Musicians in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Tree of Life artwork in Kantha Embroidery by She Kantha

Artist - She Kantha

Free Earth Day Special DIY Embroidery-Sustainability Workshop in collaboration with Brown Living

BUY Recording: ONLINE KANTHA WORKSHOP WITH SAKINA KHATUN (With Materials)

Buy Recording: ONLINE KANTHA WORKSHOP with Sakina Khatun (With Materials)

Buy Recording : ONLINE KANTHA WORKSHOP with Sakina Khatun (With Materials)

Buy Recording : ONLINE KANTHA WORKSHOP WITH JYOTI ACHARYA (With Materials)